It is difficult to imagine an inhabitant of medieval Portugal who did not know about the powerful House of Braganza, the ancient royal family that ruled in Portugal and Brazil. One of its branches is the House of Cadaval. Although the Dukes of Cadaval mainly lived in France and were the chosen aristocrats of Versailles until the beginning of the 19th century, they chose the territory of modern Portugal to build their main residence, the magnificent ancient Palace of the Dukes of Cadaval.

This recognized historical and cultural landmark stands right in the historic center of the ancient city of Evora. Thus, the palace is surrounded by outstanding landmarks of Portuguese architecture like the medieval Loios Convent and Church and the ancient Roman Temple of Diane. The magnificent palace with a 17th-century facade and thick stone walls of a 13th-century castle combines Moorish and Gothic styles and the Manueline, which was then popular in Portugal. Besides, the palace includes the tall thin Tower of the Five Shields, which can be seen from any part of the Evora historic center.

Once this beautiful palace was a royal residence, then a refuge for the governor of the city. But today, it is open to everyone.

The palace displays medieval sacred art, portraits of the Dukes of Cadaval, and a rich collection of manuscripts. Besides, the palace-museum exhibits a unique collection of ancient weapons that once belonged to the brave knights of the Catholic Military Order of St. Benedict of Avis. Other noteworthy items include pieces of antique furniture, decor, and personal belongings of the dukes. Some of the palace halls are adorned with elegant gilded wood carvings and traditional azulejo ceramic tiles. Others, on the contrary, look austere and neat, which is typical for the late period. Although the palace boasts luxurious decoration and rare and valuable exhibits, it is not a classic city museum. For example, it hosts an annual classical music festival.