House of the Alentejo (Restaurant)
Santarém
The House of the Alentejo, also known as Palácio Alverca, is a historic palace located in the Santa Justa parish of Lisbon, Portugal. Constructed at the end of the 17th century, it originally belonged to the Paes de Amaral family and later housed various functions including a liceu and one of Lisbon's first casinos, the Magestic Club, in the early 20th century. The building underwent significant renovations until 1919 under architect António Rodrigues da Silva Júnior, incorporating revivalist interior decorations with contributions from notable artists such as Benvindo Ceia and Jorge Colaço. Since 1932, it has been associated with the Alentejo community, and in 1981, the Casa do Alentejo acquired the property. Architecturally, the palace features a quadrangular plan with three courtyards, one of which was enclosed to create the current "Sala Velez Conchinhas" restaurant room. Its interiors boast an eclectic mix of neo-Gothic, neo-Arabic, neo-Renaissance, neo-Rococo, Art Nouveau, and Baroque elements, particularly notable in the restaurant's tiled rooms. Today, it serves as a cultural hub celebrating Alentejo heritage, offering visitors a unique blend of history, architecture, and regional gastronomy.
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Tip: Visit the House of the Alentejo during weekdays to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and appreciate the intricate interior tilework. Reservations are recommended for dining, especially during weekends or special cultural events. The palace offers cultural programs and occasional exhibitions, so check the schedule in advance. Visitors can benefit from discounts available for groups or cultural event attendees.
Interesting facts
- •The palace once housed one of Lisbon's earliest casinos, the Magestic Club, in 1919.
- •Its interior decoration features a blend of neo-Gothic, neo-Arabic, neo-Renaissance, neo-Rococo, Art Nouveau, and Baroque styles.
- •The "Sala Velez Conchinhas" dining room was created by enclosing one of the palace's original courtyards.
- •Several prominent Portuguese artists and artisans contributed to the palace's interior decoration during its 1919 renovation.
History
The palace was built in the late 17th century as the Palácio Alverca, originally owned by the Paes de Amaral family.
Over the centuries, it served various purposes including a liceu and the Magestic Club casino in 1919.
The building underwent major renovations directed by António Rodrigues da Silva Júnior, introducing revivalist styles and decorative arts.
In 1932, the Alentejo Guild established itself there, and in 1981, the Casa do Alentejo purchased the palace, transforming it into a cultural and gastronomic center dedicated to the Alentejo region.
Place Guide
Sala Velez Conchinhas1919
A distinctive dining room formed by enclosing one of the palace's original courtyards, showcasing exquisite tilework and revivalist decoration styles that reflect the palace's eclectic architectural heritage.
Palace CourtyardsLate 17th century
Originally, the palace had three courtyards, reflecting its quadrangular architectural plan. These open spaces provided light and ventilation and were integral to the building's design.
Interior Tilework and Decoration1919 renovation
The palace interiors are renowned for their diverse decorative styles, including neo-Gothic, neo-Arabic, neo-Renaissance, neo-Rococo, Art Nouveau, and Baroque elements, especially visible in the restaurant's rooms.