Like a smaller Palace of Versailles, Queluz Palace was built in the 18th century and mirrored Lisbon’s desire to be French at the time. Boasting a distinct Rococo style, it was designed to be a summer palace, where the court attended serenades and fire displays. However, it actually became the royal family’s permanent residence from 1794, until they fled to Brazil in 1807.
Opposite the palace are the bell and clock tower, as well as an adjacent construction, which were designed by the architect Manuel Caetano de Sousa. The building functioned as an extension of the main construction, with the façade maintaining exactly the same style and colours. Designed primarily to house palace staff, it was also used as a warehouse, as well as a concert hall, with the queen’s personal theatre housed here.
It was here, in 1995, that the Queluz Pousada (or Pousada D. Maria I, as it was originally known) came into being. Seen from the outside, it seems small and discreet – at least in comparison with the imposing palace beyond the square. However, inside it’s full of exquisite details that reflect the century of lights. The repurposing work was extensive and took nearly three years to complete. For example, the bedroom wing was practically built from scratch. There are 26 rooms of different types, including two suites (one more romantic, the other more family focussed, which can take two additional beds). The standard rooms are quite spacious and have the same decor: wooden ceilings, carpeted floors, marble bathrooms and painted designs instead of crown moulding – a replica of the originals, found in much of the pousada.
Another interesting feature is the marble staircase leading to the rooms, which was built in the 1990s and complements the whole perfectly. Downstairs, just after the reception, we find the lounge, games room, breakfast room and bar, which combines retro golden, leather and stone details that invite a relaxing drink. Sit back and ponder everything that King João VI left behind when escaping Napoleon’s troops.