Category: Civil Architecture > Palace
District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Santa Maria Maior
Located in the heart of Lisbon, this historic palace stands in one of the city's most emblematic squares, Praça dos Restauradores, in the parish of Santa Maria Maior. Its central position gives it a vibrant atmosphere, framing it within an urban setting of great dynamism and historical richness, where the capital's past and present intertwine.
The building, with its distinct presence, integrates into Lisbon's urban fabric, serving as a silent testament to crucial events that shaped national identity. Its facade imposes itself with a dignity that reflects its historical importance and the legacy it embodies.
This remarkable building is intrinsically linked to one of the most decisive moments in Portuguese history: the Restoration of Independence, on December 1, 1640. The palace was the residence of D. Antão de Almada, a prominent figure and one of the leaders of the conspiracy that ended sixty years of Philippine rule.
It was precisely in these rooms that the conspirators met, in secret, to plan the coup that would culminate in the acclamation of D. João IV as King of Portugal. The palace is, therefore, a living symbol of the courage and determination of those who fought for national sovereignty, a place where history was made and where the spirit of freedom breathes.
Today, the Palácio da Independência (Independence Palace) is the headquarters of the Sociedade Histórica da Independência de Portugal (SHIP) (Historical Society of the Independence of Portugal), an institution dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of the memory of the Restoration. This vocation ensures that the palace continues to be a center for the study and celebration of this fundamental period.
Inside, there are various standards and commemorative elements that honor the protagonists of the conspiracy and the act of restoration. These details allow visitors to immerse themselves in the era, paying tribute to the ideals and the men who made possible the reconquest of Portuguese independence.
As a typical urban noble residence, its architecture reflects the grandeur and status of its former owners. Although it has undergone some alterations over the centuries, it retains the characteristic imposing presence of 17th-century palaces, with elements that denote its glorious past.
The solidity of its structure and the elegance of its architectural details tell the story of a building that witnessed and actively participated in the construction of Portugal. The palace offers an authentic perspective on the life and settings of the conspiracies of the Portuguese nobility in the 17th century.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palácio_da_Independência
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.71516157442005,-9.139235281251473
Coordinates DMS: 38°42'54.6"N 09°08'21.2"W
Weather Lisboa
On-duty Pharmacy Lisboa
