Palácio de São Bento, an example of neoclassical architecture

You can visit the interior of Sao Bento Palace on Saturday by appointment

The São Bento Palace is a majestic neoclassical palace located in Lisbon, and is the seat of the Parliament of Portugal since 1834. Its construction took place in the sixteenth century as a Benedictine monastery, and with the extinction of religious orders in Portugal, it became property of State. After the implementation of the liberal regime it became the seat of the General Courts of the Nation, becoming known as Palace of the Courts or Parliament.

In the mid-twentieth century it began to use the designation of Sao Bento Palace, which remained until 1976, when it became the National Assembly headquarters. Over the centuries, the palace underwent a series of major rehabilitation works, both interior and exterior, which made it totally distinct from the old Monastery.

Those, who faces the São Bento Palace see an imposing building with a grand staircase sided with two lions. On the façade there are four female allegorical statues, representing prudence, justice, strength and temperance. The sculptures located in the tympanum represent various areas, such as industry and commerce.

The interior of the palace is also great, full of wards and Portuguese works of art from different eras. It opens only to the public during temporary exhibitions and on the last Saturday of each month, where free visits can be arranged by appointment, which includes a walk through the garden. This garden is also part of the São Bento mansion, the official residence of the Prime Minister.