Lisbon is one of the most attractive historical settlements, which grows rich minute by minute and has become one of the top visited destinations throughout Europe. It has always been one of the key centers in Europe and greatly influences the continent’s cultural and historical development. The silent representatives of my words are the gorgeous castles near Lisbon,which ensemble the adorable styles of Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque architecture in Europe. The castles were the witnesses of blood and war, brutal past of their country and in their walls they conceal the murk secrets of centuries.
Queluz
The romantic hideaway of Lisbon all surrounded by majestic gardens and parks, covered with fountains and blessed with fascinating stories about the Portuguese capital is Queluz: royal palace near Lisbon. The French Versailles-style palace is the finest and the most popular icon of Rococo architecture. It enjoys the magnificent surroundings of the world-known district of Sintra and while you get there, ten minutes will be enough to get to the Royal Palace from the train station.
Pink-colored Queluz was built in the 17th century and acted as a manor house for king Pedro II. It was then enlarged and became a graceful palace, which drew the attention of the entire European cultural elite. Nowadays it’s open to the public, and after you enter the pinky territory you will understand how it feels to fall in love with an architectural masterpiece. Queluz Palace is a remarkable example of Portuguese history, and it presents the perception of the Royal Family’s daily routine during the 18th century. You will feel the influence of Neoclassical, rocaille and baroque architectures and will see that the palace is not only to appeal you but it’s also a great place, which promotes knowledge.
One of the main and important parts inside the castle is the Throne Room, which was once the scene of glamorous balls and banquets of the Royal Family. Its long corridor is decorated with golden mirrors and artistic chandeliers and statues. Beyond the Throne room there is the Music Room where the queen’s orchestra used to play and fill the atmosphere with the breathtaking sounds of classical music. You will find there the Ambassadors room as well, which is an outstanding and enchanting wonder with a marble floor and valuable paintings of the royal family.
The Gardens
The Gardens of Queluz are the feature and the icons of the palace and are most-favorite especially during summertime. The gardens, which were designed by Robillion, offer the visitors two upper gardens; the Malta Garden and the Hanging Garden, which are separated and are different from each other representing different cultural and art styles. Gardens are embellished with stone sculptures and alluring lakes and many leading sculptures from Italy and England. They provide a great opportunity to understand the myth of Portuguese gods and ancient heroes, learn the antiquity and listen to the endless legends of history. The gardens were the favorite place of the royal family especially during their leisure time. The Royal family used to organize various events and royal parties there.
The Malta Garden, which was also known as Laurel Cherry Garden, because it contained the type of fruits imported from the Netherlands. On its territory there are now four fabulous sculptures, representing Music, Painting, Sculpture and Architecture. Malta Garden is surrounded by a beautiful lake with a central group of three boys with a dolphin. This is an amazing getaway to admire architecture and relax in the warm embrace of the nature.
The Hanging Garden; another miraculous hotspot, is also known as Neptune Garden and it includes a lake of the same name and another lake called Amphitrite. The two lakes are right in the center of the garden both decorated with sculptural groups from London. There are small and wonderful ponds at the end of the garden with best-known monkey tanks.
In summer one of the most enjoyed parts is the garden Cafe, which is open only in this short period of time and offers the visitors different snacks and drinks, which are worth to be tried especially after wandering in every corner of the incredible area. The cafe is situated on the right bank of the Tiled Canal and was converted by King Carlos and Queen Amelia in 1901.
If you would like to take home some souvenirs, you will definitely love the shop of Queluz, where other than buying some really good stuff to take home, you can also admire the great collection. It’s blessed with jewelry, glasses, different royal accessories, books containing huge information about the castle and if you missed anything just have a look and you will get the information you need. It’s open from 9:00 to 17:00 and is closed on Tuesdays and Public Holidays such as January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1 and December 25.
The Palace is open from 9:00 to 17:00, you can enjoy the gardens from January to April and October to December from 9:00 to 17:00, from May to September from 9:00 to 18:00. They are closed on Tuesdays and public holidays mentioned above.
Lisbon is not only the home of joy and happiness, it is also the home of overwhelming history and culture, perfect castles, which will take you back to the 17the century.
