Prazeres Cemetery, Historical cemetery in Estrela, Portugal
Prazeres Cemetery is a large green space in Estrela with parallel pathways lined by cypress trees, offering views of the Tagus River and the April 25 Bridge. Stone monuments and sculptures are scattered across the rolling terrain beneath the trees.
Founded in 1833 during a cholera outbreak in Lisbon, the cemetery was first called the Western Cemetery of Lisbon before later becoming known as Prazeres Cemetery. This change reflected the site's growing importance as a permanent burial ground for the city.
The grounds display many mausoleums with neoclassical, romantic, art nouveau, and art deco sculptures that show how Portuguese architectural styles evolved over time.
The grounds are open daily, with extended hours during warmer months. Wear comfortable walking shoes since the terrain is uneven and paths can be slippery when wet.
The grounds hold one of Europe's largest private mausoleums, the Mausoleum of Pedro de Sousa Holstein, Duke of Palmela, built in the mid-1800s. This impressive structure shows how wealthy families invested resources into monumental tombs during that era.
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