Royal Palace of the Blacks, including a watermill and adjacent lands.

Category: Civil Architecture > Palace

District: Santarém > Almeirim > Fazendas de Almeirim > Paço dos Negros

Origin and Name

Built in 1512 by King Manuel I, this small palace served as a retreat for the royal family during hunting trips. It became known as Paço dos Negros (Palace of the Blacks) due to the presence of enslaved people who worked and lived there.

What Remains Today

The Manueline portico with decorative details, the old chapel, the watermill, and the walls that delimited the complex can still be seen.

Historical Significance

The site was a logistical support center for the royalty and is associated with recent archaeological discoveries, such as vestiges of a Roman bridge.

Watermill and Mills

The Muge Stream powered mills used to grind cereals, a landmark in the local economy for centuries. Today, these mills are deactivated, but the scenery maintains the charm of the era.

Environment

Located in a quiet area, it is an ideal place to explore history, architecture, and the connection to nature.

Sources: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ruínas_do_Paço_dos_Negros_-_Portugal_(3908673685).jpg

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