For many years I have missed a nice library near me in my own neighborhood in Lisbon, Benfica. As a result, I became a fan of other places like Biblioteca Camões (Check the Biblioteca Camões article), Biblioteca Orlando Ribeiro in Telheiras (Check the Jardins de Telheiras article), and the beautiful Palácio Galveias in Campo Pequeno, which were super nice, but not close to home. So I couldn’t help but be extremely happy when they announced last year that it would finally happen. After 100 years of being closed to the public, Palácio Baldaya, or Baldaya Palace (built in the 19th century) was restored and scheduled for opening in 2017.
This wonderful building was repainted blue and has an incredible mural of D. Maria Joana Baldaya (the original owner) by artist Rui Ferreira on the facade.
Along with original architectural features, statues and fountains, it has a beautiful and quiet garden, where you can escape to relax. This cultural and innovation center has exhibition and training rooms, a library, a coffee shop, and a coworking space. It also is a venue for concerts, fairs, conferences and other events. You can always 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).
