“Royal needs inspire architectural feats.” That’s the story behind the Galeria das Necessidades. The Galeria das Necessidades is a vital part of Lisbon’s water distribution system. It carries water from the Aqueduto das Águas Livres.
The Galeria das Necessidades starts upstream from the Mãe d’Água das Amoreiras. It descends toward today’s Palácio das Necessidades. A branch runs under the Avenida Infante Santo toward the Palácio das Janelas Verdes.
Originally the Galeria das Necessidades stretched 3217 meters. Sadly a large section was destroyed in 1949 during the construction of the Avenida Infante Santo.
Imagine the Lisbon of centuries ago. Fresh water was a precious commodity. The Galeria das Necessidades ensured a steady supply to several key fountains. These fountains, or Chafarizes, provided water for the city’s residents.
The Chafariz das Necessidades was built in 1752. The Chafariz da Estrela followed in 1778. A year later the Chafariz da Praça da Armada was erected. The Chafariz das Janelas Verdes appeared in 1775. Finally the Chafariz das Terras was built in 1791. Each of these fountains was a vital point for the community.
The Palácio das Necessidades has its own interesting story. It began as a convent in the 18th century. King John V ordered its construction. He was thankful for prayers answered by Our Lady of Needs. Her chapel once stood on this very site.
Later the palace became home to the Braganza kings. Maria II was the first to reside here. Most monarchs after her followed except Luís I.
King Peter V even installed a message slot on the front door. His subjects could leave complaints for him. The palace witnessed the monarchy’s final days. King Carlos and his son Prince Luís Filipe were mourned here after their assassination.
During the revolution of 1910 the Palácio das Necessidades was attacked. The cruiser Adamastor shelled the palace. However the king Manuel II had already fled.
Today the Palácio das Necessidades houses the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The royal art collections were moved to the Ajuda Palace museum. Just as “Whitehall” represents the British government “Necessidades” symbolizes Portuguese foreign policy.
So the Galeria das Necessidades and the Palácio das Necessidades are intertwined. One provided water. The other became a home for royalty and a center for governance. Together they represent Lisbon’s rich history.