Palace of the Monteiro-Mor

Category: Nature > Botanical Garden

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lumiar > Paço do Lumiar

Location:

The Monteiro-Mor Palace is located in the parish of Lumiar, in Lisbon, integrated into a broader historical complex known as Paço do Lumiar. It is situated in an area that was once characterized by the presence of recreational estates, offering an environment of refuge and contact with nature, even within the city.

The property is walled, opening onto Largo Júlio Castilho. Its setting, on a hillside and in a secluded valley, gives it a somewhat isolated and tranquil character, although it is close to residential areas.

Origins and History:

The history of this palace dates back to the 18th century, an era when the name Monteiro-Mor became associated with the property due to some of its owners holding this position. Over the centuries, the estate where the palace is located had various uses, transitioning from a noble residence to other purposes.

The building we see today, with features from the 18th and 19th centuries, underwent significant transformations. In 1970, a fire caused extensive damage, but the palace was later restored, seeking to maintain its resemblance to the original construction. It was classified as a Property of Public Interest, recognizing its historical and architectural value.

Architecture and Characteristics:

The architecture of the Monteiro-Mor Palace presents an interesting mix of styles, combining elements of late Baroque and Neoclassicism. The main facade, facing east, stands out for its symmetry and a projecting central body topped by a triangular pediment. The use of limestone ashlar for moldings, balconies, and other decorative details is notable.

One of the side facades exhibits a more Baroque language, with robust pillars and a curved portal. Inside, despite adaptations over time, vestiges of the original structure can still be found, such as remaining tiles in the area that was once the palace kitchen.

The Park Environment:

An integral part of Quinta do Monteiro-Mor is the vast park, covering about eleven hectares. This green space underwent careful landscape treatment in the 19th century, adopting the romantic style in vogue at the time.

The park invites tranquil strolls through its nooks, where one discovers naturally shaped lakes, discreet fountains, waterfalls, and grottoes with rocky decorations. The different plant species, some exotic and rare, contribute to the beauty and diversity of this historic garden, which was designed by notable gardeners and botanists.

The Resident Museum:

Currently, the Monteiro-Mor Palace building houses the National Museum of Theatre and Dance. The museum is dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of the performing arts in Portugal.

Within its facilities, it is possible to explore a vast collection related to theatre and dance, which includes stage costumes, set and costume designs, posters, programs, photographs, and other elements that document the rich history of these arts in the country.

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