Palácio Sabugosa e Jardins

Palácio Sabugosa e Jardins is a historic palace with gardens in Lisbon's Alcântara district, on Rua 1º de Maio. It is also known as the Palácio dos Condes de São Lourenço. Listed as a cultural heritage monument, its story links a former country estate, a noble family and one of Lisbon's best-known road approaches.

How did the Sabugosa palace come about?

The building dates back to the 16th century. It began as a country house on a property called Quinta Cesária, then on the edge of the city. Over time it was enlarged and restored, with works recorded in 1728, 1865 and 1878. The result is a building that layers several eras rather than belonging to a single one.

Who were the Counts of Sabugosa?

In the early 18th century a descendant of the earlier owners, D. Vasco Fernandes César de Menezes, 1st Count of Sabugosa, ordered major works on the houses of the estate. The palace took the name it carries today from this family.

What is the story of the library?

In the palace library, a Count of Sabugosa found the previously lost "Auto da Festa" by Gil Vicente, one of Portugal's most important playwrights, and had it published. For anyone interested in literature, this is the most appealing chapter in the site's history.

What makes the gardens special?

The palace comes with a garden of very old trees, said to be around three centuries old. A sundial in the grounds bears the date 1605, showing that the estate has a far longer past than most of the buildings around it.

Why does the viaduct by the 25 de Abril Bridge bend?

A curiosity for urban history fans: the slight angle in the viaduct where the 25 de Abril Bridge reaches the Lisbon side is tied to this palace's story. According to accounts, Salazar agreed that the Sabugosa residence needed to be preserved, so the route was laid out to avoid it.

Visiting

The palace sits in Alcântara, a former port and industrial district now known for its cultural life and views over the Tagus. It pairs well with a walk around the neighbourhood. Access to the interiors and garden can change, so check current information from Lisbon's city services before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Palácio Sabugosa? In Lisbon, in the Alcântara parish, on Rua 1º de Maio.

When was it built? In the 16th century, with later works in 1728, 1865 and 1878.

Is it connected to the 25 de Abril Bridge? Yes. The bend in the viaduct on the Lisbon side is linked to the decision to preserve the palace.

What was found in its library? Gil Vicente's "Auto da Festa", which the Count of Sabugosa later had published.

What is in the garden? Three-century-old trees and a sundial dated 1605.