Chicken breasts at the market | USD 7.20 |
Coke bottle | USD 1.52 |
Monthly Pass (local transport) | USD 47.46 |
One-way ticket (local transport) | USD 2.03 |
Eggs (12) | USD 2.33 |
Apples (1kg) | USD 1.83 |
Pack of cigarettes | USD 5.69 |
Fitness club, monthly fee for 1 adult | USD 57.61 |
Taxi 1km | USD 0.68 |
Cappuccino | USD 1.51 |
Queluz is a small suburb near Lisbon, which is characterized by its magnificent royal palace. Tourists take cheap flights to Queluz to take a look at this fine sample of Rococo architecture. Stay at any of the hotels in Queluz and drink in the fine beauties of the Versailles-like palace which was built in 17th century.
Tourists can take cheap flights to Queluz directly or simply reach the town from Sintra or Lisbon which are quite nearby. It is a mere 10-minute walk from Queluz-Belas station. The pink colored palace is in a cobbled square and has a Queen Maria I statue with former Royal Guard building facing it.
When this palace was first built, it served as King Pedro II’s manor house. Later on, it was enlarged to transform into a graceful palace that stands till today. This well preserved palace is open to public; at the same time it accommodates dignitaries and state guests, like former American presidents Carter, Eisenhower, Bill Clinton and Reagan. During summer months, equestrian shows and classical music concerts are also hosted here.
The elegant but grand Throne Room is one of the highlights of this palace. This room, at one time, served as the venue for splendid banquets and balls. The room is adorned with gilded statues and crystal chandeliers and lined with mirrors. Next is the Music Room where concerts and operas were performed by the queen’s orchestra, which was considered to be the best of Europe. The royal bedroom is also remarkable with stunning murals of Don Quixote, exotic wooden floor decorations and a domed ceiling, all of which combine to give it a circular appearance.
Another outstanding room is the Ambassador’s Room with ceiling paintings of the royal family’s attendance of concert, marble floor, fine porcelain, French and English style furniture and Arraiolos carpets.
The original kitchen has now been transformed into a restaurant known as Cozinha Velha. The arches, vaulted ceiling and stone chimney have been retained. The desserts of the restaurant are famous, most of which are made following ancient convent recipes.
Rococo facades overlook the beautiful gardens which are adorned with classical mythology-themed fountains and elaborate statues.