Palácio Calheta, 17th-century noble palace in Ajuda, Portugal
The Palácio dos Condes da Calheta is a two-story noble residence with asymmetrical sections and a long iron balcony running along its southern side that overlooks the garden. The building displays architectural features characteristic of 17th-century Portuguese aristocratic homes.
King João V acquired the palace in 1726, marking its entry into royal ownership. Following an assassination attempt on King José I in 1758, the building served as a location for investigations related to this political incident.
The palace walls display traditional Portuguese tiles from the 17th and 18th centuries showing hunting scenes, pastoral life, and military events. These decorations reflect the interests and daily concerns of the Portuguese nobility of that era.
The building sits at Rua General João de Almeida 15 in the Ajuda neighborhood and currently houses the Documentation Center of the Tropical Scientific Research Institute. Visitors should confirm in advance whether the center is open for tours or viewings.
The first floor holds a specialized wood collection called Xiloteca used for scientific research and documentation of wood samples. This unusual collection transforms the building into an important hub for biological research.
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