Originally constructed as a country residence for the Marquises of Távora in the mid-17th century, Galveias Palace later became a significant part of the renowned Távora family's history until it was confiscated by the State in 1759. In 1801, it was acquired by D. João de Almeida de Melo e Castro, the 5th Count of Galveias, who initiated restoration works. Subsequently, it changed ownership and eventually came under the possession of the Lisbon Municipal Council in 1928, which transformed it into a municipal library.

In 2015, the library temporarily closed its doors to undergo extensive renovation and expansion, aiming to transform it into a 21st-century library with enhanced facilities and engaging spaces for the community. The renovation project increased the usable area from approximately 1,336.05 m2 to 2,040.10 m2. After an estimated closure period of 18 months, Galveias Palace Library reopened its doors on June 10, 2017, offering an enriched experience for visitors.

The revamped library now boasts 220 additional seats, expanding its capacity to accommodate more patrons. With an extra 700 m2 of space, it incorporates extended study rooms, a dedicated children's area, versatile workspaces, and free internet access. The library also features a lounge area, providing a comfortable and inviting environment for visitors. This ambitious renovation project required an investment of 2.5 million euros, resulting in a revitalized community resource.

Architecturally, Galveias Palace exhibits a perfectly symmetrical layout with a U-shaped floor plan influenced by French design. The imposing structure is distinguished by its precise architectural lines. Notably, the U-shaped layout is enclosed by a surrounding wall that houses the main gate—a solution frequently employed during the 17th century, prevalent throughout Portugal. The courtyard of Galveias Palace showcases intriguing semi-circular Renaissance-style pediments above its balcony windows, a feature also found in religious architecture from the early 17th century.

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Upon observing the palace's exterior, one cannot miss the heraldic gate, exquisitely adorned in the mannerist style and prominently displaying the arms of the city of Lisbon. The grand entrance hall, known as the noble courtyard, forms an impressive square, serving as a majestic gateway to this historic property.

Throughout the years, Galveias Palace has undergone significant interior transformations and improvements while preserving its original exterior architecture, with the exception of the noble courtyard. The renovation works conducted between 1929 and 1931 left a lasting impact on the interior design, ensuring the preservation of its outer aesthetics.

Today, Galveias Palace stands as a captivating testament to Lisbon's architectural heritage, seamlessly blending its historic significance with modern library facilities. As the Municipal Library Palácio Galveias, it continues to serve as a vibrant hub for knowledge, culture, and community engagement, attracting visitors from near and far.

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