Paços do Marquês

Paços do Marquês is a medieval palace in the historic centre of Ponte de Lima, in the Alto Minho region of northern Portugal. Also known as the Palace of the Marquesses of Ponte de Lima, it dates from the second half of the 15th century and has changed both its look and its purpose many times. Today it is one of the most interesting stops on a walk through the oldest part of town.

Who built Paços do Marquês?

The palace was raised as the residence of the alcaide-mor, the castle governor, Leonel de Lima. In 1464 King Afonso V issued a charter allowing him to build a fortification on the site of his houses. Leonel's will of 1495 already mentions the palace, so it stood by then. In the following century his grandson, João de Lima, had the building improved and Manueline-style windows opened.

What is there to see?

The facade shows numerous Manueline windows, a style typical of Portuguese architecture around 1500. Look also for the cross and the calendar set into the wall, where the date is changed every day. Although heavily remodelled over the centuries, the building keeps its medieval origins. Extensive gardens surround it, making the area pleasant for a quiet break.

How has the building's use changed?

In 1906 the property was bequeathed to the Santa Casa da Misericórdia of Ponte de Lima for a new hospital, which only opened in 1927. In the 1970s the municipality took over the building and installed a technical school there. In 1981 it was adapted as the town hall, the Paços do Concelho. After works beginning in 2003 it served as the municipality's tourism delegation and exhibition centre, with a tourist information point and a shop selling local products.

Military History Interpretation Centre

Today the palace houses the Centro de Interpretação da História Militar de Ponte de Lima (CIHMPL). It is an interactive museum space devoted to the military history of the town and region. Visitors can see the interiors of the historic building and learn about Ponte de Lima's past through the lens of defence and war.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Paços do Marquês? In the historic centre of Ponte de Lima, in Portugal's Alto Minho region.

How old is the building? It dates from the second half of the 15th century, with later alterations, including in the 16th century.

Why is it called the palace of the marquesses? It is linked to the Lima family, whose member Leonel de Lima was its first owner; it is also known as the Palácio dos Marqueses de Ponte de Lima.

Is there a museum inside? Yes, it hosts the Military History Interpretation Centre. Earlier the building served as a town hall, school and hospital.

Is it worth a visit? Yes. The Manueline windows, the layered history and the exhibition round off a walk through Ponte de Lima, one of Portugal's oldest towns.