The grand neoclassical palace of São Bento (Palácio da Assembléia) is the seat of the Assembly of the Portuguese Republic, the parliament of Portugal. Its original manifestation was a monastery that was home to Benedictine monks dating back to 1598. As with much of Lisbon's medieval architecture this original building suffered severe damage during the devastating earthquake of 1755. Following the Liberal Revolution 0f 1820 and the dissolution of religious orders in 1834, the monks were evicted from the site to be replaced by the Portuguese Parliament. During this period the palace attained the title of Palácio das Cortes or Parlamento.
São Bento Palace Exterior
The Cloisters
Assembly of the Republic
São Bento Palace - Gardens
Admission to the temporary exhibitions are usually free. The gardens of the Prime Minister’s mansion are also free.
Tram #28E - stops just outside the palace Timetable | |
Rato - Yellow Line (last station) Timetable | |
713, 773 |
A stroll down Rua de São Bento away from the palace is the Amália Rodrigues House-Museum, the former residence of Amália Rodrigues, one of Lisbon's most iconic Fado star. Amália Rodrigues past away on the 6th of October 1999 and the interior of her home has been preserved just as it was. On display are personal items, such as the many awards Amália Rodrigues recieved during her lifetime, ceramics from Companhia das Índias, portraits, recordings and ostentatious outfits. There's an half-hour guided tour for those who want to know more about this iconic fado diva.
Adult: €7.00, OAP: €6.00, Concessionary: €4.50, Child 0-12: FREE. Lisbon Card: -20%
Foundation Amália Rodrigues, 193 Rua de São Bento, 1250-219 Lisbon, Portugal.
38° 42' 55.8" N | 09° 09' 16.1" W | Website
Amália Rodrigues House Museum
Igreja de Jesus (Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Mercês)
Also known as the Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Mercês the 18th century façade of the Igreja de Jesus hides a treasure inside. Its vaulted ceiling is totally covered in azulejo tiles dating from 1714. Its the work of master tiler António de Oliveira Bernardes and represents the devotions of the Virgin Mary. As a working church it opens for mass only but if you're passing and the door is open, it's well worth having a look-see inside.
Largo de Jesus, 1200-317 Lisboa, Portugal. | 38° 42' 44.7" N | 09° 09' 01.7" W