The Palace of the Marquesses of Fronteira, or simply Palace Fronteira, is a stunning historical estate located in Lisbon, Portugal. Built in the 17th century, it serves as one of the best-preserved examples of Portuguese aristocratic architecture and design.
The palace is renowned for its exquisite beauty and authenticity, reflecting a harmonious blend of Renaissance, Baroque, and Mannerist styles. Its exterior is adorned with intricate azulejo tiles that depict historical and mythological scenes, offering a vivid glimpse into the cultural richness of the period. These tiles, along with the elaborately decorated facades and lush gardens, create an atmosphere of timeless elegance.
Inside, the palace is equally impressive, featuring opulent rooms filled with antique furniture, stunning frescoes, and intricate woodwork. The Sala dos Painéis (Hall of Panels) is particularly noteworthy for its detailed tile panels that narrate the history and achievements of the Fronteira family.
The gardens of the palace are another highlight, designed in the formal Italian style with geometric layouts, ornamental fountains, and classical statues. The Garden of Venus and the Lake House are especially famous for their romantic and serene settings, making them ideal spots for contemplation and admiration.
What truly sets Palace Fronteira apart is its sense of authenticity. Unlike many other historical sites that have undergone extensive restorations, Palace Fronteira has maintained much of its original charm and character. Visitors can experience the grandeur of a bygone era in a setting that feels both intimate and grand, offering a genuine glimpse into the aristocratic life of Portugal's past. I'm highly recommend visiting this palace and take...
Read moreI found this place in this article listing three places to definitely visit in Lisbon for the best tile work, and I could not agree more. It contains a beautiful garden, especially the tile work around the chapel and other places containing seashells and broken glass and ceramics. Due to time, we only visited the garden, but I regret not going into the palace on a guided tour, which is the only way to view it as descendants of the family who built this place still live here today. Even though, the garden was well worth that money, time and journey to get there. Also, there is a little more modern updated garden tucked away a bit that is still nice to visit, so keep an eye out.
(It has lost a star due to the fact that they have a singular black swan in a 'lake' that looks very lonely. They seemed to be trying to communicate with themselves in a mirror, and only seemed to be excited when a certain gardener walked up, who always made time to play with the swan. I just think the swan could use a friend perhaps? But then again, I don't know everything...
Read moreFantastic house and gardens! My partner and I toured the gardens and house today and I couldn't have enjoyed it more. The place is exceptionally beautiful and our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and interesting. He told us all about the house, the history of its contents and the people who lived there and the gardens in one hour that went by in a flash. I have been to Pena palace, other castles in Sintra, and this was my favorite, due to the lack of crowds (there were only 6 people on our tour) and high level of the information provided. Our guide, Frederico, was not your usual purveyor of information, but rather, someone who seemed as if he was an art historian. He explained how the family who lives in the house were descended from the original owners and opened this fabulous place to the public to pay for repairs and upkeep. Well worth the price of admission! Don't miss it! You can take the subway to the Zoo stop and then walk...
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