Palácio dos Condes da Ponte, 18th century palace in Alcântara, Portugal.
The Palácio dos Condes da Ponte is an 18th century palace in Alcântara with a rectangular layout and a two-story main facade. Stone pilasters divide the front, and basket-handle arches frame openings that lead toward an interior atrium.
The palace belonged to wealthy merchant Teodósio Gonçalves da Silva in 1786 and later became the subject of a property dispute with the Count of Santiago de Beduído. Significant changes came when the building was adapted for a new public purpose in the modern era.
The building contains a notable ceramic tile panel signed by Gabriel del Barco depicting a female figure representing the month of March. This decoration reflects the artistic tastes of the wealthy owners who lived here in the 17th and 18th centuries.
The building now houses the Carris Museum, which opened in 1999 and presents the history of Lisbon's public transportation system. Visitors should check current opening hours and access conditions before planning a visit.
The ground level of the palace was raised to install iron rails for the streetcar system. This practical adaptation shows how the historic building was incorporated into Lisbon's modern transportation network.
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