Paço Imperial

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  • Address
    cnr Praça XV de Novembro & Rua Primeiro de Março, Santa Teresa
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  • Phone
    2533 4407

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Lonely Planet review

The former imperial palace was originally built in 1743 as a governor's residence. Later it became the home of Dom João and his family when the Portuguese throne transferred the royal seat of power to the colony. In 1888, Princesa Isabel proclaimed the Freedom from Slavery Act from the palace's steps. The building was neglected for many years but has been restored and is used for exhibitions and concerts; its cinema frequently screens foreign and art-house films.