Valencas Palace (Palácio Valenças), Sintra

The Valencas Palace, originally known as the Duche Palace, stands as a striking symbol of Sintra's architectural and historical heritage. Built in the latter half of the 19th century, the palace was commissioned by Lisbon merchant Antonio Ferreira dos Anjos and designed by the renowned Italian architect and set designer Giuseppe Cinatti, known for his work at the Teatro de Sao Carlos. Construction began in 1877, but neither Ferreira dos Anjos nor Cinatti lived to see its completion, which was overseen by Guilhermina Rosa Matos Anjos, Ferreira dos Anjos' daughter, and her husband, Luis Leite Pereira Jardim, the 1st Count of Valencas. This union led to the palace being renamed Valencas.

The palace reflects a Romantic architectural style with Gothic-inspired elements and Venetian influences, evident in its elegant loggias, balustrades, and intricate stonework. Originally part of Quinta do Duche, the estate also featured a lush park and botanical garden, now part of the Parque da Liberdade.

In 1936, Ricardo Anjos Jardim, the son of the 1st Count of Valencas, sold the property to the Municipality of Sintra. By 1939, the palace was repurposed to house the Municipal Library, a museum, and a historical archive, solidifying its role as a cultural hub. Over time, the library expanded, and in the 1960s, it underwent significant renovations, including the addition of a grand panel of tiles by modernist artist Carlos Vizeu, depicting the arms of Sintra and evocative local imagery.

Today, the Valencas Palace serves as the seat of the Municipal Assembly and continues to host cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions. Its rich history and architectural beauty make it a key landmark in Sintra, embodying the town's romantic spirit and cultural significance.