Audio GuideMuseu Condes de Castro Guimarães

This Revivalist-style palace built in 1900 has exhibits of paintings, ancient artifacts & old books.

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Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães stands proudly in the heart of Cascais, Portugal. This beautiful Revivalist-style palace was built around nineteen hundred and eight and opened its doors as a museum in nineteen thirty-one. Originally commissioned by Jorge O’Neill and later owned by Manuel Inácio de Castro Guimarães, the museum was bequeathed to the town to share its treasures with the public.

As you walk through the grand entrance, you'll notice the medieval-style Torre de São Sebastião and a stunning stone spiral staircase. The mansion is surrounded by lush English-style gardens that offer a peaceful retreat. Inside, the museum houses an impressive collection of paintings, seventeenth-century silverware, oriental porcelain, and an extensive library with over twenty-five thousand books.

Explore the Cloister, inspired by the Jerónimos Monastery, adorned with intricate tiles and ceramic ornaments. In the Sala dos Trevos, admire the trefoil ceiling that honors the owner’s Irish heritage, and join in the celebrations during St. Patrick's Day. The Sala de Música features patterned tiles and a French-style organ, inviting you to imagine the melodies that once filled the room. The Galeria showcases nineteenth and twentieth-century paintings and sculptures, reflecting various art movements.

Don’t miss the unique Torreão or the Sala de Armas, where displays of armory tell stories of the past. The museum also shares the personal story of the Conde de Castro Guimarães and his family, highlighting the societal norms of their time.

With its romantic architecture and rich collections, Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães is a cultural gem in Cascais, offering visitors a glimpse into history and art in an enchanting setting.

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