Casa dos Bicos / José Saramago Foundation

"Located in the riverside area, the archaeological nucleus of Casa dos Bicos is located in one of the most representative examples of civil architecture in 16th century Lisbon, in addition to containing memories that combine traces from different eras, some dating back 2000 years. Opened in 2014, the Lisbon Museum - Casa dos Bicos comprises a long-term exhibition area that includes visits to the archaeological ruins. Casa dos Bicos was built, probably from 1522 onwards, by order of Brás de Albuquerque (1500-1580), son of the governor of India Afonso de Albuquerque (1453-1515), according to a project attributed to the architect Francisco de Arruda. Despite being quite transformed, it is the most important Lisbon residence from the Renaissance period, which combines a diamond facade, similar to other civil constructions in Italy or Spain, such as the Diamond Palace in Ferrara or the Palace of the Dukes of the Infantado, in Guadalajara, with an eclectic taste that included the integration of Mudéjar tiles and other prestigious artistic productions. Following the 1755 Earthquake, the upper floors suffered profound destruction. Acquired by the City Council in 1955, the property underwent rehabilitation in 1981, with a project designed by architects Manuel Vicente (1934-2013) and Daniel Santa-Rita (1929-2001), restoring the architectural complex to its original volume. Between 1987 and 2002, it was the headquarters of the National Commission for the Commemorations of Portuguese Discoveries. In 2008, the municipality provided the upper floors for the installation of the José Saramago Foundation, reserving the ground floor for the creation of an archaeological nucleus, which integrated other remains recovered in a new archaeological campaign, carried out in 2010, with visible, in particular, sections of the late-Roman wall and cetarias, elements of a Roman factory producing fish preparations and condiments, mainly intended for export."

"Walk river side all the way to Casa dos Bicos, a unique building with a façade adorned with diamond-shaped stones. This historical house, once owned by a prominent Portuguese figure, now hosts cultural events and exhibitions. Explore its architecture and learn about its intriguing history."