Queluz Palace

The National Palace of Queluz, located in the city of Queluz, near Lisbon, is one of the last great rococo constructions in Europe. Built as a summer residence for Prince Dom Pedro of Braganza, future King Pedro III, and his wife, Queen Maria I, the palace is a perfect example of luxury and opulence of the 18th century. Its construction began in 1747 under the direction of the architect Mateus Vicente de Oliveira, who had also worked on the Mafra Palace. The work was interrupted by the devastating Lisbon earthquake of 1755, but resumed in 1758 with new anti-seismic safety measures. The architecture of the Palácio de Queluz combines elements of Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical styles, reflecting the stylistic evolution of the time. The exterior facades, although sober and severe, hide a richly decorated interior. Among the most magnificent rooms are the Throne Room and the Ambassadors’ Room. The Throne Room, with its walls lined with mirrors and golden decorations, was designed to impress guests with its grandeur. The decorations include intricate golden wood carvings and sparkling chandeliers, which reflect the light creating a spectacular effect. The opulence of the interiors is balanced by the wonderful Italian-style gardens surrounding the palace. These gardens, adorned with hedges, statues, fountains, and ponds, were used for parties, fireworks displays, and outdoor concerts. The Azulejo Canal, a long artificial lake decorated with tiles depicting harbor scenes, was one of the royal family’s favorite spots for gondola rides accompanied by music. The palace experienced its golden age under the reign of Pedro III and Maria I, when it became the center of court life. However, the premature deaths of the king and their eldest son led Maria I to suffer from severe mental disorders, to the point of being remembered as “Maria the Mad”. During these difficult years, the palace became a sort of golden prison for the queen. In 1794, a fire destroyed the temporary royal palace of Ajuda, and the royal family permanently moved to Queluz. Since then, the palace has hosted numerous court events and served as the official residence until the royal family’s departure to Brazil in 1807, during the Napoleonic invasion. The royal residence remained in Queluz until their return to Portugal in 1821. In the 19th century, the palace entered a period of decline, especially after the death of King João VI and the subsequent fratricidal struggle between his sons, Pedro IV and Miguel. The latter, after his defeat in the Liberal Wars, died in the same palace where he was born, a victim of tuberculosis. In 1910, with the proclamation of the Republic, the Palácio de Queluz was declared a National Monument. During the 20th century, the palace was restored and requalified as a museum and a venue for state visits. Today, the palace is open to the public and offers guided tours that allow visitors to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Portugal. The sumptuous rooms of the palace and its enchanting gardens continue to enchant visitors, offering a fascinating glimpse into the life of the Portuguese royal court.