Located in the coastal town of Cascais, the Castro Guimarães Palace feels like stepping into a fairytale. With its dramatic location overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and its enchanting mix of architectural styles, this palace is as much a work of art as the treasures it holds.
Originally known as the Torre de São Sebastião, the palace was built in 1900 for Jorge O’Neill, a wealthy Irish aristocrat with Portuguese roots. Its design is a curious blend of Gothic Revival and Manueline styles, combining medieval charm with the nautical motifs and intricate detailing of Portugal’s Age of Discovery. The building feels alive with history; its turrets, arched windows, and intricately carved stonework give it a timeless appeal.
The Castro Guimarães Palace stands out for its architectural beauty and incredible collection. The palace became a museum in 1931, thanks to its last private owner, the Count of Castro Guimarães, who bequeathed it to the city. His eclectic collection is still on display today, everything from Indo-Portuguese furniture and ancient ceramics to fine paintings and a remarkable library. The library is a treasure, with the crown jewel being a 16th-century illuminated manuscript called the ‘Chronicle of England’—a rare and fascinating relic that takes visitors back in time.
The palace is surrounded by Marechal Carmona Park, a verdant oasis of winding paths, tranquil ponds, and peacocks that strut around as if they own the place. The design of this garden is as whimsical as the palace itself, blending formal landscaping with natural elements to create the perfect escape from reality. Walking through this park is like wandering through a living painting, with every turn revealing a new view, a hidden sculpture, or a secret corner to explore. One of the most captivating aspects of the Castro Guimarães Palace is its seamless connection to the sea. The estate extends to the water’s edge, and from the palace’s windows and terraces, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the shimmering Atlantic. The experience is especially magical at sunset, when the golden light dances off the waves and fills the palace with a warm, ethereal glow.
The palace is a museum and cultural centre, with exhibitions, concerts, and educational programmes throughout the year. It feels vibrant and alive, where history is preserved, celebrated, and shared with each new visitor.
In a city full of history and beauty, the Castro Guimarães Palace still stands out. It is a place that invites you to dream, discover, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Portugal’s past. Whether you are drawn by art, history, or simply the allure of a fairytale setting by the sea, this palace is a destination that promises to captivate and inspire.
