Palácio da Ega in Lisbon

Palácio da Ega (also called Palácio do Pátio do Saldanha or Palácio dos Condes da Ega) is a historic palace in Lisbon on Calçada da Boa-Hora, in the Alcântara parish. Today it is linked to the Arquivo Histórico Ultramarino, the Portuguese archive of overseas records. Its interior highlight is the Salão Pompeia.

Where does the palace name come from?

The name refers to the Counts of Ega. One of them, Aires José Maria de Saldanha, the 2nd Count of Ega, commissioned embellishment works on the residence. The alternative name, Pátio do Saldanha, recalls the Saldanha family, who owned the original estate. Ega is a noble title, not the name of a city district.

How old is the palace?

The oldest part dates to the 16th century. A fountain bearing an inscription of 1582 comes from that period. After many alterations the palace now consists of three main bodies: the entrance section, the south wing and the eastern Pompeia salon. This layout results from 18th-century works that gave the residence its present character.

What is the Salão Pompeia?

It is the palace's most famous room. Its painted decoration was inspired by engravings in books on the excavations at Herculaneum and Pompeii, which is why the room was renamed the Pompeia salon. It also features early 18th-century azulejo tiles depicting European ports, including Constantinople, Cologne, London, Venice, Hamburg, Middelburg, Rotterdam and Antwerp. The salon has held Property of Public Interest status since 1950.

Can you visit Palácio da Ega?

The palace is part of an archival institution, so access can be limited. The archive has reported occasional guided visits organised with Lisbon's city services. Check the current rules on the Arquivo Histórico Ultramarino website before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Palácio da Ega? In Lisbon, on Calçada da Boa-Hora, in the Alcântara parish.

Who owned the palace? First the Saldanha family; the residence is later associated with the Counts of Ega.

What should I see inside? Above all the Salão Pompeia, with paintings inspired by Pompeii and tiles showing European ports.

Is the palace protected? Yes, the Pompeia salon has been classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1950.

Who is it for? Lovers of architecture and azulejos, and travellers who want less obvious corners of Lisbon away from the busiest sights.

Why is it worth a look?

The palace layers several eras: 16th-century beginnings, 18th-century splendour and later institutional use. For a visitor who has already seen Belém and Alfama, it is a chance to see a noble Lisbon residence with an interior inspired by archaeological discoveries and the ports of Europe. Combine a visit with a walk around Alcântara, a former port and industrial district that is now trendy and full of cafés and galleries.