Palácio Lavra

Palácio Lavra is a 17th-century palace in Lisbon, standing right beside the famous Elevador do Lavra funicular. Today, together with the neighbouring Palácio de Pedrosas, it forms part of the Six Senses Lisbon hotel. It is a good example of how old aristocratic architecture finds a new life in a modern city.

What is Palácio Lavra?

It is a historic palace dating from the 17th century, set within Lisbon's old urban fabric. It is not a classic attraction with ticket booths and opening hours, but a building worth seeing on a walk through the area, especially if you are interested in Portugal's historic residential architecture.

What is the history of the palace?

In the 16th century the original property belonged to Dr. Damião de Aguiar Ribeiro, a royal counsellor and court official who also sat on Lisbon's city council. In the 18th century it passed to the descendants of Manuel Lopes de Lavre, also known as "Lavra". One of them married into the House of Morgados de Oliveira, ancestors of the Marquises of Rio Maior. The palace takes its name from these former owners, and sources use the spellings "Lavre" and "Lavra" interchangeably.

In 1800 the property was sold at auction and then rebuilt. From 1869 a school founded by professor Barros Proença operated in the palace, described as a fine national school. For years the building therefore served educational purposes as well as residential ones.

What happens here today?

In recent years the palace has been converted into a hotel together with the nearby Palácio de Pedrosas. The project was announced as the opening of Six Senses Lisbon across two historic buildings. Seeing the interiors is therefore tied to staying at or using the services of the hotel, so check the current access rules before visiting.

How to get there and what to see nearby

The palace stands next to the Elevador do Lavra, considered Lisbon's oldest funicular, opened in 1884. Riding this small railway is an easy way to combine a look at the palace with exploring the city's hills. The surrounding streets are pleasant for a quiet stroll, away from the biggest crowds.

Frequently asked questions

When was Palácio Lavra built? It dates from the 17th century, though it was rebuilt after being sold at auction in 1800.

Is there a hotel in the palace? Yes, together with Palácio de Pedrosas it has been converted into the Six Senses Lisbon hotel.

What is next to it? The Elevador do Lavra funicular, opened in 1884.

Where does the name come from? From Manuel Lopes de Lavre, known as "Lavra", whose descendants owned the property in the 18th century.

Did the palace have other uses? Yes, from 1869 it housed a school founded by professor Barros Proença.