In 1870, a viscount built a large and beautiful residence in Lisbon’s Lapa district for one of his sons. When the son declined such a generous gift, the property was sold to the Count of Valenças, Luís Leite Pereira Jardim, who transformed it into a magnificent palace in 1877. Luís Leite Pereira Jardim was a jurist, educator, and politician who served as a Member of Parliament in several legislatures, renowned for his interest in educational policy.
With the help of the finest artists of the time — among them Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro — he renovated the residence, adding a beautiful garden and a tower from which to admire Lisbon and the River Tagus. The palace soon became famous as the setting for high-society events hosted by the Count.
In 1988, the Count’s heirs sold the palace to the Simões de Almeida family, who transformed it into a hotel, originally called Hotel da Lapa. The property underwent an extensive renovation led by architect Alberto Cruz and his son Manuel Cruz, with the main goal of preserving as much of the palace’s style as possible. The stained-glass windows of the Columbano and Eça de Queirós Rooms are original to the palace, as are the furnishings in the Eça de Queirós Room — including a 170-year-old carpet.
The Lapa Palace officially opened its doors to the public in 1992
As a five-star hotel with décor worthy of a royal residence, Lapa Palace has hosted many distinguished guests, including John Malkovich, Paul McCartney, Colin Farrell, Monica Bellucci, Bon Jovi, U2, Robert De Niro, Heidi Klum, The Queen, and even Prince Charles of England.
Its décor is truly unique. Experience the comfort of an overnight stay in a palace.
