Palácio de Lahane, Portuguese colonial palace in Dili, East Timor.
The Palácio de Lahane is a one-story pink building with octagonal towers at its corners, located in the hills south of Dili's center. The architecture combines colonial elements with decorative details that set the structure apart from other government buildings.
Construction began in 1860 under Governor Afonso de Castro and underwent significant renovations in the 1930s with Art Deco elements added. After independence in 1999, it was restored and has served as a government building since then.
The palace serves as a venue for state receptions and official ceremonies of the Timorese government today. Its rooms reflect the building's role as a place where important political moments and diplomatic gatherings take place.
The building sits on a hill with good views of the surroundings and is easily reached by car. Visitors should know that it functions as an official government site, so access times are limited.
During World War II, Governor Manuel Ferreira de Carvalho was held at the palace and received special food rations on Portuguese holidays. This episode shows how the building maintained its importance for Portuguese administration even under difficult historical circumstances.
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