Only a short distance from Lisbon stands a 17th-century palace largely overlooked by visitors. This secret treasure is definitely worth visiting to appreciate its stunning tiles and scenic landscapes.

Hidden beyond the downtown area, at the outskirts of Lisbon’s
Monsanto forest park
situated within the city is one of its most exquisite—but seldom-visited—palaces. Constructed approximately in 1670 by a marquis, it remains home to his heirs, who allow access to selected areas and green spaces for guests. Unfamiliar to many travelers,
this secret treasure of Lisbon
it’s definitely worth taking a detour, just to appreciate its assortment of azulejos, regarded as the best in Portugal.
LFHCK.ID
welcomes you to explore this subtle palace.

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A 17th-century mansion located mere steps from Lisbon

In the 1660s and 1670s, when Dom João de Mascarenhas and his wife, Dona Madalena de Castro, ordered the construction of the palace, it was originally meant only as a place for hunting. Despite its modest design, the building still demonstrates the family’s elevated social status.

However, in 1755, a powerful earthquake struck Lisbon. The Mascarenhas family, residing in the city at the time, decided to enlarge this recreational getaway and convert it into their primary dwelling. From that point onward, each successive generation made it their home—until now, with the thirteenth still inhabiting it.

A classic instance of Portuguese Baroque artistry

Featuring frescoes, wooden paneling, and most notably, its azulejos, the palace serves as an outstanding representation of Portuguese Baroque style. Within, the Dining Hall, decorated with Dutch tiles and paintings, or the Room of Juno, embellished with pieces from Domingos António de Sequeira, are genuinely stunning.

However, the most impressive room is the Hall of Battles. The walls, adorned with 17th-century tiles, illustrate eight scenes from the War of Independence (1640–1668). One of these depicts Dom João de Mascarenhas facing off against a Spanish general.
His dedication to Pedro II of Portugal throughout this dispute led him to be granted the title of Marquis of Fronteira.
,” explains the palace’s official website.

Beyond, the expansive balcony features nine mythical sculptures and sections of tilework. Examine the walls carefully and you’ll find an animated collection of creatures, audaciously ridiculing human civilization. Prior to exploring the gardens, a stop at the chapel—initially constructed in the late 16th century and restored during the 18th—offers great value. Its embellishments include
embrechados
a collection of stones, shells, glass, and ceramic pieces, stands out.

A garden styled in the Renaissance tradition decorated with the most exquisite tiles

One of the palace’s notable features is its garden. Drawn from the style of the Italian Renaissance,
It features azulejo tiles.
illustrating legendary and historic events. Water features, statues, and lakes—each area showcases building elements, some of which are charmingly playful.

The highlight? Clearly the Gallery of Kings. It features tiled panels depicting fourteen knights riding at full speed, overlooking a large pool. Above these, statues illustrate the fifteen Portuguese kings. Closeby, twelve panels depict the months of the year along with rural scenes representing each season.

The Rider’s Pond, the Cave of Coolness, the Fountain House, the Pavilion of Refreshment… discovering these outdoor attractions offers a chance to explore, away from the noise of downtown. Guided tours (some offered in French) are very well-liked, uncovering interesting stories related to the place and its statues. Events such as concerts, talks, and cultural walks take place each month. For details, visit
the royal residence’s online platforms
.

Fronteira Palace

São Domingos de Benfica Square 01,

1500-554 Lisbon, Portugal

fronteira-alorna.pt