For many years I have complained (ok, and cried a lot) about not having a nice library near me in my own neighbourhood, Benfica. As a result, I became a fan of other places like Biblioteca Camões (Check the Biblioteca Camões article) and Telheiras (Check the Jardins de Telheiras article), which was nice, but, even so I couldn’t help but be extremely happy when they announced that last year it would finally happen.
After 100 years of being closed to the public, Baldaya Palace (built in the 19th century) was restored and scheduled for opening in 2017. It happened in September and slowly it is becoming much more than just a (small) library for Benfica’s locals.
This wonderfully restored building was repainted blue and has an incredible painting of D. Maria Joana Baldaya (the original owner) by artist Rui Ferreira on the facade.
Along with original architectural features, statues, a fountain inhabited by fish, etc, it has a beautiful garden where you can also have some coffee and relax. This cultural and innovation center has exhibition rooms, a coffee shop, a coworking space that was officially opened on February 15th. It also is a venue for concerts and promises lots of cool events in the future. You can check their facebook page to see what’s happening.
You can get there easier by bus (716, 746, 758), but if you don’t mind walking, it is relatively near Colégio Militar/Luz metro station (blue line).
It’s very well worth the visit!
