Palácio do Barão de Quintela e Conde de Farrobo

Palácio do Barão de Quintela e Conde de Farrobo (also called Palácio Quintela) is an aristocratic residence in central Lisbon, in the Misericórdia parish at Rua do Alecrim 70. Today it houses a dining complex known as Palácio Chiado.

How did the palace come to be?

The building went up in 1781 as the home of the Quintela family, on the site of an earlier palace that had fallen into ruin. In the late 18th century it was one of the grander private addresses in the city, home to a family of considerable wealth and standing.

What does it look like?

The architecture is described as eclectic, with neoclassical and neo-baroque character. The interiors are the real draw. Their lavish decoration comes from a large decorative campaign in the 1820s, which involved Giuseppe Cinatti and António Manuel da Fonseca, among others. The rooms keep the feel of the grand reception salons they once were.

Who was the Count of Farrobo?

Joaquim Pedro de Quintela, the 2nd Baron of Quintela and 1st Count of Farrobo, was famous for his extravagant parties. His reputation for revelry was so strong that the Portuguese word "farrobodó", meaning a wild, noisy party, is said to derive from his title. The palace was a centre of the capital's social life in his day.

The palace and Portuguese history

In 1807 and 1808, during the First French Invasion, General Junot installed himself in the palace. That ties the building not only to one family but also to the turbulent years of the Napoleonic wars on the Iberian Peninsula.

What is inside today?

The former home has been opened to the public as Palácio Chiado. It holds seven gastronomic concepts run by seven chefs, ranging from sushi to burgers, with around 250 seats in total. Guests eat and drink in the historic rooms, so a visit is an easy way to see the 19th-century interiors without a conventional entrance ticket.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the palace? In Lisbon, in the Misericórdia parish at Rua do Alecrim 70, close to the Chiado district.

Can I go inside? Yes. It is open to the public as Palácio Chiado, with restaurants and bars. Check opening hours before you go.

When was it built? The building dates from 1781, and its ornate interiors were created in the 1820s.

What does "farrobodó" mean? It is a Portuguese word for a rowdy, lively party, linked to the Count of Farrobo and his lavish entertaining.

Is it worth visiting if I am not hungry? For architecture and history enthusiasts it is an interesting stop on a walk through central Lisbon, though most visitors come mainly to eat and drink within the palace rooms.