Palace of the Dukes of Cadaval
Évora
The Palace of the Dukes of Cadaval is a remarkable historical monument located in the acropolis of Évora, Portugal. It uniquely combines architectural styles including Mudejar, Gothic, and Manueline, centered around the imposing Torre das Cinco Quinas, a pentagonal medieval tower that is a national monument. The palace complex includes the manor house and the adjoining Church of the Lóios, also known as the Church of St. John the Evangelist. Originally built in the 14th century upon the Roman-Visigothic walls of the old Évora Castle, the palace was the residence of several Portuguese monarchs and noble families, notably the House of Cadaval, a powerful branch of the House of Braganza. It houses extensive exhibition rooms with collections of illuminated manuscripts, sculptures, paintings, and armory dating from the 15th to the 18th centuries. Today, the palace serves as a cultural venue hosting events such as the annual Évora Clássica music festival and offers visitors access to its gardens and a restaurant terrace named Jardim do Paço. Its historic significance is marked by notable events such as the imprisonment and execution of Fernando II, Duke of Braganza, in 1483.
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Tip: Visit during the spring and early summer for pleasant weather and to enjoy the Évora Clássica music festival held annually at the palace. It is advisable to check the official website for opening hours and to book tickets in advance when possible. Visitors can also enjoy the on-site restaurant with garden terrace. Discounts may be available for seniors, students, or groups. Guided tours offer deeper insight into the palace's history and art collections.
Interesting facts
- •The palace's Torre das Cinco Quinas is a rare pentagonal medieval tower incorporated into the structure and classified as a National Monument since 1920.
- •Fernando II, Duke of Braganza, was arrested in the palace in 1483 and later executed for alleged conspiracy against King João II.
- •The palace hosts the Évora Clássica music festival annually since 1994, which has expanded from Western classical music to global musical styles.
- •The palace gardens include a public restaurant terrace called Jardim do Paço, open since the mid-1990s.
- •The palace was built partially on the Roman-Visigoth walls of the old Évora Castle, visible in its fortified military outlines.
History
The Palace of the Dukes of Cadaval was originally constructed in the 14th century by nobleman Martim Afonso de Mello near the Tower of Évora, incorporating parts of the Roman-Visigothic walls of the old castle.
The Duchy of Cadaval was created in 1648 by King João IV, granting the title to Dom Nuno Álvares Pereira de Melo, uniting powerful noble houses.
Throughout history, the palace was a residence for Portuguese monarchs such as Dom João II, Dom João IV, and Dom João V.
In 1483, Fernando II, Duke of Braganza, was imprisoned here before his execution.
The palace underwent restoration in the early 1990s to preserve its architectural and cultural heritage, led by then Duchess Claudine Marguerite Marianne Tritz.
Place Guide
Torre das Cinco Quinas (Tower of the Five Corners)14th century
A unique pentagonal medieval tower that defines the palace's silhouette. It is a rare architectural feature and a National Monument, originally part of the old castle fortifications incorporated into the palace structure.
Casa Cadaval Exhibition Rooms15th-18th centuries
Rooms housing a rich collection of illuminated codices, sculptures, paintings, and armory dating from the 15th to 18th centuries, showcasing the noble heritage and artistic patronage of the Cadaval family.
Church of the Lóios (Church of St. John the Evangelist)
An adjoining church to the palace, integrating religious and cultural significance with the palace complex, reflecting a blend of architectural styles.
Palace Gardens and Jardim do Paço RestaurantMid-1990s
Extensive outdoor gardens providing a serene environment, with a public restaurant terrace named Jardim do Paço offering local cuisine and views of the palace grounds.
Contact
Phone: 919 588 474
