Palácio das Chagas (two ceilings) or Palácio Sandomil

Category: Civil Architecture > Palace

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Chiado

Location

The Palácio das Chagas, also known as Palácio Sandomil, stands imposingly in the heart of Chiado, one of Lisbon's most historic and culturally rich neighborhoods. Its presence in this urban setting denotes the importance it once held and still harmoniously blends into Lisbon's architectural landscape.

Located in the parish of Santa Maria Maior, in the municipality and district of Lisbon, this building is immersed in the vibrant atmosphere that characterizes the area, amidst traditional shopping streets and cultural spaces, reflecting the essence of the Portuguese capital.

History and Legacy

The history of Palácio das Chagas or Palácio Sandomil dates back to periods before the devastating earthquake of 1755, which profoundly altered Lisbon's physiognomy. Despite the damage caused by the cataclysm, the palace was rebuilt and adapted, maintaining its relevance throughout the centuries. Its name “Palácio das Chagas” derives from its historical function as the seat of the Tribunal das Chagas, an institution of considerable importance in the judicial administration of the time.

On the other hand, the designation “Palácio Sandomil” inextricably links it to the noble family of the Counts of Sandomil, who resided there. This connection to prominent lineages of Portuguese society attests to its social and cultural importance, serving as a testament to the life of the Lisbon aristocracy.

Architecture and Interior Highlights

The palace's architecture reflects the evolution of prevailing styles in the Portuguese capital, displaying characteristics that denote adaptations and reconstructions over time. However, it is its interiors that truly stand out and justify one of its most distinctive names.

The two ceilings that lend it part of its name are architectural aspects of remarkable artistic value. These pieces are true works of art, exhibiting decorative and pictorial details that attest to the richness and technical refinement of the era in which they were created. Whether elaborate frescoes, meticulous stucco work, or painted panels, these ceilings reveal the opulence of the palace's noble spaces, offering a glimpse into the taste and artistic mastery that characterized Lisbon's grand residences.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt