Paço de Valadares

The Paço de Valadares in Lisbon is a historic palace that uniquely sits atop the remains of the city's ancient Roman theater near the Alfama district. While the site has been used for noble residences since the Middle Ages, the current structure is primarily a product of the post-1755 earthquake reconstruction era. For generations, it served as the seat of the powerful Valadares family, whose members held high positions within the Portuguese court. Architecturally, the palace exhibits late Baroque and Neoclassical features, characterized by the balanced and functional 'Pombaline' style. Its historical significance was amplified in 1964 when archaeological excavations revealed the well-preserved ruins of the Roman theater directly beneath its foundations. This discovery has turned the site into a fascinating landmark where Lisbon's multilayered history, from the 1st century AD to the 18th-century Enlightenment, is visibly preserved and accessible to the public.

Nearby cities

Vila Nova de Gaia

This city is located opposite Porto on the southern bank of the Douro.

Figueira da Foz

This coastal city is located at the mouth of the Mondego River.

Ponte de Lima

Ponte de Lima is considered the oldest town in Portugal.

Ermesinde

Ermesinde is a city in the Porto Metropolitan Area.

Espinho

Espinho is a popular seaside resort south of Porto.

Póvoa de Varzim

This coastal city in northern Portugal is a popular holiday destination with a strong fishing tradition and a major casino.

Matosinhos

Matosinhos is a port city located just north of Porto.

Gondomar

Gondomar is situated on the Douro River near Porto.

Vila do Conde

This historic city is located at the mouth of the Ave River.

Caldas da Rainha

This city is known as a major center for thermal spas and ceramics.

Arcos de Valdevez

This town on the Vez River is a gateway to the Peneda-Gerês National Park.

São João da Madeira

São João da Madeira is a city south of Porto.

Valongo

Valongo is a city in the Porto Metropolitan Area.

Trofa

Trofa is a young city located north of Porto.

Entroncamento

Entroncamento is the heart of the Portuguese railway system.

History & landmarks

Conímbriga

One of the largest and best-preserved Roman settlements in Portugal, famous for its intricate mosaics.

Alcobaça

Alcobaça is famous for its massive Cistercian monastery and the tragic love story of Pedro and Inês.

Lamego

A historic baroque city in the Douro Valley, famous for its monumental staircase leading to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies.