Palácio da Cerca

Palácio da Cerca in Almada, better known today as Casa da Cerca – Centro de Arte Contemporânea, is a historic palace in the old centre of the town, across the Tagus from Lisbon. Since 1993 it has housed a contemporary art centre, and the grounds around it hold a botanical garden themed around the materials of art.

What does the palace look like, and how old is it?

The building dates to the 16th century and was reshaped over the following centuries. It has a classical character, with a U-shaped plan arranged around a central courtyard. In the courtyard stands a chapel decorated with early 18th-century azulejo tiles attributed to the master known as P.M.P. Some accounts stress that its present form owes much to 18th- and 19th-century works, with Baroque and Romantic influences, and that an enlargement followed the occupation of Almada by French troops under Junot in 1808.

Who lived here?

Over the centuries the palace served as a residence for nobles, merchants, clergy and diplomats. In 1581 it hosted Philip I of Portugal (Philip II of Spain) on the eve of his solemn entry into Lisbon. In 1996 it was classified as a Property of Public Interest (Imóvel de Interesse Público).

How did a ruin become an art centre?

In 1988, in an advanced state of decay, the building was bought by Almada's municipal council. The artist Rogério Ribeiro, then director of the Municipal Art Gallery, was invited to design the project. The centre opened to the public on 18 November 1993. Since then Casa da Cerca has built its own identity around contemporary art, with particular emphasis on drawing, in both its theoretical and practical dimensions. The municipality publishes the programme of exhibitions and events.

What is there to see in the garden?

The garden is divided into themed areas that echo the artist's workshop:

• Pigments Garden – flowers and plants used to obtain dyes,
• Gums Orchard – fruit trees producing gums used in painting,
• Painters Garden – dedicated to a different painter each year,
• Oils Garden – rosemary, lavender, poppies and flax,
• Canvas Garden – flax and cotton,
• Forest – trees whose wood is used for sculpture.

The "Chão das Artes" botanical garden was inaugurated here in June 2001.

Who is it for?

Palácio da Cerca suits a walk through old Almada for anyone who enjoys architecture, contemporary art and quiet gardens. It combines a historic palace, a gallery and green space in a single stop, so it is worth planning a few hours rather than a quick look.

Frequently asked questions

Is Palácio da Cerca the same as Casa da Cerca? Yes. The former palace now operates as Casa da Cerca – Centro de Arte Contemporânea.

When did it open to visitors? On 18 November 1993, after the town council bought it in 1988.

Is it a protected monument? Yes. It has been classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1996.

Where is it? In the historic centre of Almada, Setúbal District, Portugal, near coordinates 38.684 N, 9.159 W.

Is there a garden? Yes, a themed botanical garden divided into areas linked to the materials used in art.

Where can I check current hours and exhibitions? On the Almada municipality website, which publishes the centre's programme. Hours can change, so check before visiting.