About this place
Palacete Lambertini is a historic townhouse at Avenida da Liberdade 166 in Lisbon, built in the early twentieth century as the residence of musician and musicologist Michel'Angelo Lambertini. It stands on one of the Portuguese capital's main boulevards and recalls the years when this grand avenue was lined with the homes of wealthy citizens.
Who built Palacete Lambertini?
The commission came from Michel'Angelo Lambertini (1862-1920), a pianist, composer, musicologist and writer on music. The design dates to 1901 and is credited to architect Nicola Bigaglia. The Lambertini name already had deep musical roots in Portugal. Luiz Joaquim Lambertini, an Italian piano maker, tuner and pianist, arrived in the country in 1836 and set up a piano workshop in Lisbon at Largo de São Roque, on the corner with Travessa da Queimada. Over time the firm became a recognised name in Portuguese musical life.
The Valmor Prize and a dispute
The building was entered for the Prémio Valmor, Lisbon's architecture award for the best newly built buildings. In the 1904 edition it received an honourable mention. The owner was unhappy with that outcome and complained and appealed to the city council, but the decision stood.
Interiors like a museum
In 1913, Alfredo Pinto Sacavém described the house on Avenida da Liberdade as a "true museum of precious objects". The interiors held collections that reflected the owner's interests and his standing in Lisbon's artistic circles.
What happened to the building later
The function of the building changed over time. By 1940 it housed the Grémio dos Armazenistas de Mercearia, a guild of grocery wholesalers. Its story shows how many mansions on Avenida da Liberdade passed from private families to institutions and businesses.
How to visit
The best way to see Palacete Lambertini is as part of a walk along Avenida da Liberdade, between Marquês de Pombal square and Restauradores. The building is recorded in Portuguese heritage registers and described by the Lisbon city authorities. Look at the early twentieth-century facade and compare it with the neighbouring buildings along the boulevard. Before you go, check the city's website to find out whether the building is open to visitors and on what terms.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Palacete Lambertini? At Avenida da Liberdade 166 in Lisbon, near coordinates 38.7198 N, 9.1446 W.
When was it built? The design dates to 1901 and construction belongs to the early twentieth century. In 1904 it received an honourable mention in the Valmor competition.
Who designed it? Architect Nicola Bigaglia, commissioned by Michel'Angelo Lambertini.
What was it used for later? By 1940 it was the seat of the grocery wholesalers' guild, Grémio dos Armazenistas de Mercearia.
Why is it worth seeing? For its link to the musical Lambertini family, its Valmor Prize recognition and its position on Lisbon's most famous avenue.
Sources: Câmara Municipal de Lisboa, SIPA / monumentos.gov.pt, Lisboa de Antigamente.
Nearby places
Earn badges for the places you visit
Download NextOnTrip, discover new places and check off your trails.