Henriques Palace, Royal palace in Alcáçovas, Portugal
Henriques Palace is a castle in Alcáçovas featuring a main residence, traditional gardens, and the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Conceição adjacent to Republic Square. The restored structure now serves as a cultural center with an auditorium, visitor information office, and three gallery spaces.
King Denis ordered construction of this palace in the late 13th century on the site of a former castle as a royal residence. The building gained international importance in 1479 when a significant treaty dividing territories between two nations was signed there.
The palace houses exhibitions about cowbell crafting, a traditional skill recognized by UNESCO as intangible heritage requiring urgent protection. Visitors can observe the techniques and tools that artisans still use in this region today.
The location is easily accessible on foot with clear signage directing visitors to the exhibition galleries and chapel. Plan adequate time to explore both the interior spaces and the surrounding gardens at a relaxed pace.
The palace was the site where the Treaty of Alcáçovas was signed in 1479, establishing the first global division of territories between two European powers. This agreement marked a turning point in colonial history and influenced geopolitical relations for decades.
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