The space will be restored and will once again feature the water mirror that characterized it in the 18th century, bringing visitors closer to the atmosphere and experiences of the time when the royal family and court strolled by boat on the tranquil waters, which were dammed by a sluice system, as stated in a release by PSML, a public capital company responsible for safeguarding and enhancing the world heritage landscape, managing several monuments including the National Palace of Queluz.
The “fantasy landscapes” of the large tile panels were designed from engravings, depicting seaports and various landscapes, PSML emphasizes. The intervention project is expected to be completed in the first half of 2028, PSML’s press office told Lusa news agency.
“This is an intervention that combines the three guiding principles that guide the actions of Parques de Sintra, as it values heritage and promotes the quality of the visit, making it more authentic; deepens the connection with the scientific community, based on a partnership with the National Civil Engineering Laboratory; and tests innovative and sustainable solutions that preserve the built heritage for future generations,” said PSML President João Sousa Rego in the statement.
The head highlights that this is “a pioneering effort in Portugal,” decided by PSML, by “carrying out pilot interventions on-site, in order to test and assess the most suitable materials and techniques before the final work.”
“The Canal dos Azulejos de Queluz is a living testament to Portuguese art, engineering, and cultural heritage that must be preserved,” underlines the PSML president.
The National Palace of Queluz is located in an area of approximately 16 hectares, with its construction initiated in 1747 under the direction of architect Mateus Vicente de Oliveira. It was initially a summer residence for the future King Pedro III, consort of Queen Maria I, and served as the royal family’s residence between 1794 and 1807 during the regency of the future King João VI.
