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Palácio Nacional da Ajuda
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The National Palace of Ajuda is fruit of the will of King João VI of Portugal, who wished to build one of the largest palaces in the world and fill it to the brim with the riches of the Portuguese Empire. Although incomplete, it is still today the most important palace in the country regarding the relevance of its collections and authenticity of its interiors. The rooms, practically untouched since the fall of the monarchy in 1910, allow us to visit the original stage of the private and political moments that have defined the history of Portugal. The abundant collections of the palace, which oldest objects date from the 16th century, bring together jewellery, painting, ceramics, sculpture, textiles, furniture, glass and photography, aside from the many other wonders connected to the daily life of the Royal Family that constitute a universe of over 100.000 pieces.
Built in Lisbon, on an area scarcely reached by the Great Lisbon Earthquake in 1755, the former royal residence retains today its functions as a seat of power, being punctually used for solemnities of the Government of Portugal and the Presidency of the Republic.
The current mission of the palace-museum, in its quality of former royal residence, is to become a European museum of reference while carrying out the study, restoration, conservation, valorization and dissemination of its collections.
José Alberto Ribeiro
(General Manager)
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José Alberto Ribeiro
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