Gain insights into the lives of Portuguese nobility from centuries past at the Palacio dos Biscainhos. The baroque-style manor house is thought to have been built in the late 16th century and was owned by the same family for nearly 300 years. Today, it is a museum with rooms that are decorated with period pieces and family memorabilia.
While few of the furnishings are originals of the house, the collection features several pieces from across Europe and further afield. An assortment of pottery, glassware and silverware is also on display.
Study the collection of antique watches and clocks. View the painted tile panels from the 18th century in the Main Hall. They depict members of the nobility relaxing in a park. Inside the Music and Games Room, see period furniture, family portraits and an old piano. Step into the large kitchen and see pots, pans and cooking utensils that are hundreds of years old. Visit the stable block and look over the wooden carriages that would’ve once been pulled by horses.
Then, spend some time in the palacio’s gardens which are built on three levels and enclosed by a high wall. These are best seen during spring and summer when they are in full bloom. Numerous fountains and statues are dotted among the colourful collection of plants. Admire the hedge maze and look for the tulip tree that dates back to the founding of the garden.Take advantage of your time outside to appreciate the building’s exterior with its baroque plasterwork and granite balconies.
Palacio dos Biscainhos and its gardens are a short walk or bus trip from the city centre. You will find the doors are shut for a couple of hours for lunch during the middle of the day. There is a small entrance fee to pay which is waived on the first Sunday of every month.
