Taking a leaf out of President Marcelo’s book, prime minister António Costa has decided to throw the doors of his official residence at São Bento palace open to the public in commemoration of the 42nd anniversary of “25 de Abril” – the Carnation Revolution that ended 37 years of dictatorship.
According to a statement released by Lusa today, the gardens and “some of the rooms” of the prime minister’s home will welcome visitors from 2.30pm to 7pm, with a cultural programme promised, including an orchestral performance, poetry readings and music performed by urban groups.
Recalling the bloodless military coup, there will also be a documentary screening with radio clips of reports that came through on April 25, 1974.
This is the first time in years that the palace has opened to the public. The last occasion was in 2012, when former PM Pedro Passos Coelho was riding high, and used the moment for a celebration lunch with Olympic hopefuls.
Last month, President Marcelo also opened his official residence, Belém Palace, to throngs who enjoyed the wonderfully sunny day to meet Portugal’s new Head of State (click here)
