Palace of Queluz, Royal palace in Queluz, Portugal.
The Palace of Queluz is a Rococo castle with ornate rooms featuring mirrored walls, gilded woodwork, and blue-and-white ceramic tiles throughout. The building contains ceremonial spaces and private apartments arranged around courtyards and gardens.
Construction began in 1747 when architect Mateus Vicente de Oliveira transformed an existing manor into a royal summer residence for Prince Pedro. The project continued for many years, gradually expanding the building into one of Portugal's major palaces.
The palace served as a summer retreat for the Portuguese royal family, and its rooms reflect how nobility lived and entertained during that period. Walking through the decorated halls shows the tastes and priorities of those who inhabited these spaces.
The palace is located near Lisbon and easy to reach by public transportation or car. Plan for a few hours to walk through the rooms and gardens, and wear comfortable shoes as there is considerable walking involved.
The palace complex contains a throne room with one of the most elaborate Baroque ceilings in Portugal, which many visitors overlook. This ceiling displays intricate paintings and carvings that represent the craftsmanship of a specific historical period.
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