Did you know that Palácio do Grilo was once home to the Dukes of Lafões? This magnificent palace stands proudly at the corner of Rua do Grilo and Calçada dos Duques de Lafões. It’s a testament to Lisbon’s rich history. Its construction began in 1756 and ended in 1760. The Palácio do Grilo wasn’t built on empty land. It replaced a pre-existing palace on the Quinta do Grilo. This Quinta was a vast property belonging to D António de Mascarenhas. The exact date of the original palace is unknown.
The Palácio do Grilo’s neoclassical style is punctuated by Baroque influences. Its story is interwoven with significant historical events. After the devastating 1755 Lisbon earthquake the first Duke of Lafões undertook its construction. Originally intended for Pedro Henrique de Bragança it was completed by his brother João Carlos de Bragança the second Duke of Lafões after Pedro Henrique’s untimely death in 1761. The Palácio do Grilo remained in the possession of the Dukes of Lafões until 2018.
The palace is more than just stone and mortar. Its interior is a treasure trove of decorative programs reflecting immense cultural diversity. There are stunning mural paintings by Cyrillo Volkmar Machado and canvases from the 18th and 19th centuries. These adorn themed rooms such as the Academy Hall the Venus Room and the Chinese Room. The architecture of the Palácio do Grilo shows the ingenuity of its designers. The main structure is an L-shape. Its longer side runs north-south parallel to the Tagus River. The shorter section faces both the river and the street. A courtyard is enclosed within this L-shape. This courtyard was accessible from the street via a ramp. This ramp is now the Calçada do Duque de Lafões.
Much of the original structure including the main body and internal divisions survives on the west wing. The street-facing side was doubled creating an eleven-window façade over two floors. The upper courtyard was largely retained its dimensions only adjusted for symmetry. The ground floor featured a grand hall leading to a simplified staircase. This staircase connected to a large hall opening onto the courtyard. A symmetrical extension was added on the east. The sloping ground was cleverly used for direct access to the courtyard via a ramp. North of the courtyard another section was built. This contained a spacious room likely a library. Behind the palace were cascading gardens down the hillside.
Sadly the plan to complete the palace was abandoned in the 19th century. A ground floor section added in the early 20th century underwent various alterations. It uses vaulted structures supported by a metal frame. This reflects the evolution of architectural techniques. The main structure however continues to be supported by masonry walls and cast iron pillars. In 2011 Palácio do Grilo was classified as a Monument of Public Interest MIP.
Today under the ownership of Julien Labrousse Palácio do Grilo has been transformed into a vibrant performance space. It boasts a restaurant and bar opening in June 2022. This transformation won the 2023 Prix Versailles a UNESCO award. The Palace of Grilo has also more than 200 rooms. It’s a place where history dreams and artistry intertwine. This is Palácio do Grilo a true marvel in the heart of Lisbon.