There was a large choice of historic palaces to visit and because my time was cut short in Lisbon, I had to choose just one.
The Palace of the Marquesses of Fronteira was constructed in 1671 as a hunting lodge for João de Mascarenhas, 1st Marquis of Fronteira. The current Marquis of Fronteira still lives in the palace and opens certain parts to the public.
I took the metro to outside the city and then took a short taxi ride to the palace. There are English speaking tours led a few times a week.
The inside of the house had a fascinating history to it and the Room of Battles has hand painted scenes of the Portuguese Restoration War and the dining room had portraits representing Portuguese nobles.
As much as I liked the palace, the gardens were spectacular. The formal garden spans over 13 acres and there is a stunning display of Portuguese tiles that represent the different arts and mythological figures. My favorite part was the green water pool surrounded by busts of the Kings of Portugal. I just loved the colors and textures all around the garden including the yellow and green moss covered stone and I could have showed you 30 more photos.
The Palace of the Marquesses of Fronteira is a must see when you go to Lisbon.
Did you like my series of Lisbon stories?
http://www.lisbon-tourism.com/en/lisbon-attractions/historical-edifices-and-monuments-in-lisbon/fronteira-palace.html
New Eye Prefer Paris Photos for Sale
I am happy to announce the sale of a new set of prints of my Eye Prefer Paris Photos. I am offering 20 of my most popular and iconic images for sale including my doors, architectural details, statues, and monuments. They will make great gifts for all your Francophile friends, relatives, and colleagues but don't forget to buy some for yourself.
Click here to see photos and for full details including sizes, prices, and shipping. Here is a sample of some of the photos.
New! Eye Prefer Paris Cooking Classes
I am happy to announce the launch of Eye Prefer Paris Cooking Classes. Come take an ethnic culinary journey with me and chef and caterer Charlotte Puckette, co-author of the bestseller The Ethnic Paris Cookbook (with Olivia Kiang-Snaije). First we will shop at a Paris green-market for the freshest ingredients and then return to Charlotte's professional kitchen near the Eiffel Tower to cook a three-course lunch. After, we will indulge in the delicious feast we prepared along with hand-selected wines.
Cost: 185 euros per person (about $240)
Time: 9:30AM- 2PM (approximately 4 1/2 hours)
Location: We will meet by a metro station close to the market
Class days: Tuesday,Wednesday, Thursday,Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Minimum of 2 students, maximum 6 students.
Click here to sign up for the next class or for more info.
I am pleased as punch to announce the launch of Eye Prefer Paris Tours, which are 3-hour walking tours I will personally be leading. The Eye Prefer Paris Tour includes many of the places I have written about such as small museums & galleries, restaurants, cafes & food markets, secret addresses, fashion & home boutiques, parks, and much more.
Tours cost 195 euros for up to 3 people, and 65 euros for each additional person. I look forward to meeting you on my tours and it will be my pleasure and delight to show you my insiders Paris.
Check it out at www.eyepreferparistours.com
Michele and I loved our Rick Steves' tour of Portugal, but your trip has included several sites we didn't make. Now I want to go again!
Posted by: nelda | January 10, 2013 at 10:49 PM
Yes, Richard, I did like your Lisbon series. Since things are "closer together" in Europe than here (especially where I am - New Mexico!), I think your occasional outside-Paris posts go a long way toward putting Paris into context.
Keep up the good work!
Posted by: tammi | January 10, 2013 at 10:50 PM
Thank you so much for all these gorgeous pictures - I so want to go to Portugal now!
Posted by: martha | January 10, 2013 at 11:04 PM
Spectacular photos Richard. Now Lisbon is on my list of places I must see.
Posted by: pat | January 10, 2013 at 11:06 PM
Thanks for sharing your Lisbon adventure, I'm ready to book a flight. (only kidding)
My son and I had a great adventure in Greece about 7 yrs ago, forwarded him your
your emails, he says let's go.
Thanks for showing us the lovely side of life, it is refreshing.
Posted by: william | January 10, 2013 at 11:08 PM
Loved your series on Lisbon - I'm sure I'll never get there so I really have enjoyed your reports - thanks for all your wonderful reporting - enjoy each and every post you make.
Wishing you good health, happiness and prosperity in the New Year!
Posted by: sandy | January 11, 2013 at 02:41 PM
Fantastic! Fantastic! Beginning with the moss in the first one and then then getting better and better. The tile work is magnificent and I agree about the green water pool. Just amazing photos. Loved the one with you in it, too!
Thank you so much. Gorgeous!
Posted by: Vicki | January 11, 2013 at 02:42 PM