Once the palace of Kings, the Belém Palace is now National Monument and also the seat of the Presidency of the Portuguese Republic, as well as the official residence of the President of the Republic.
This impressive building is steeped in history and immediately recognizable thanks to its distinctive pink colour and imposing black iron gates guarded by military sentries in traditional uniform. The main façade of the Palace is composed of five buildings dating from the second half of the 17th century. They were built at a time when the monarchy wanted to find a place to rest from the crowded confines of the city of Lisbon.
At this palace you can observe the formal ceremony of the Changing of the Guard, which takes place on the 3rd Sunday of every month at 11am. It’s truly an impressive spectacle to watch as the Belem Palace guard march into place in their dazzling uniforms.
You’ll know if the President of the Portuguese Republic is in the building, because a green flag with the national arms will be flying high.