Learn about the 500-year history of Portugal’s Parliament building, which was once a monastery before being converted to a striking neoclassical masterpiece.
The Sao Bento Palace is a striking architectural landmark that serves today as the seat of Portuguese Parliament. Visit this soaring, neoclassical construction and learn about its 16th-century history as a monastery for Benedictine monks.
The building has been remodelled several times since the 16th century however, the original plan of the monastery is still apparent. Explore the rectangular structure and spot its four cloisters. In consistency with this plan, four statues, perched atop pedestals, embody prudence, strength, justice and temperance within the monastery walls. In 1834, the building was subsumed by the Portuguese government in a show of religious suppression.
Admire the chapter house, a place of worship that was redesigned by French architect Jean Francois Colson in 1867. Famous Portuguese architect, Miguel Ventura Terra, led further reconstructions. Over 40 years from 1903, he converted archaic monastery designs to their current neoclassical styles. Notice, in particular, the columns and triangular pediment of the Palace façade.
Within the building, enjoy the grandiose décor. Walk amongst the solid marble pillars and look out for pieces from a large collection of sculptures and paintings. This interior is open to the public when parliament is in session as well as selected other times. Check the palace website for details.
After exploring the Parliament, see where its leader resides. Just behind the palace, the Prime Minister of Portugal’s stately mansion is built amongst the gardens of the former monastery. This picturesque estate has served as the home of the country’s leader since 1938.
For an informative experience of the building, book a tour and have a guide explain the intricacies of the area’s history. When you get hungry, order a meal or a snack at one of any nearby cafés.
The Parliament (Sao Bento Palace) is in the Chiado district. This suburb, one of Lisbon’s oldest and most architecturally impressive, is well worth exploring after your visit. Get there using city buses or walk to the palace from a number of Lisbon’s central attractions.
