D. Maria II: from Brazilian Princess to Queen of Portugal (1819–1853)
26 May 2021 — 29 Sep 2021 at Palace of Ajuda
· Ajuda
This temporary exhibition at the Palácio Nacional da Ajuda in Lisbon explores the life and legacy of D. Maria II (1819–1853), one of Portugal's most significant monarchs. Born in Rio de Janeiro as a Brazilian princess, she would go on to become Queen of Portugal, navigating a turbulent era of liberal revolution, dynastic conflict, and national renewal.
Through royal portraits, personal objects, documents, and decorative arts drawn from the palace's own collections, the exhibition traces her journey from childhood in the court of Brazil to her accession to the Portuguese throne and her years of reign. Visitors are invited to discover the woman behind the crown — her education, her family ties, and her enduring influence on Portuguese cultural and political life.
Through royal portraits, personal objects, documents, and decorative arts drawn from the palace's own collections, the exhibition traces her journey from childhood in the court of Brazil to her accession to the Portuguese throne and her years of reign. Visitors are invited to discover the woman behind the crown — her education, her family ties, and her enduring influence on Portuguese cultural and political life.
About the venue
Palace of Ajuda
· Ajuda
The Palace of Ajuda is a neoclassical monument in the civil parish of Ajuda in the city of Lisbon, central Portugal. Built on the site of a temporary wooden building constructed to house the royal family after the 1755 earthquake and tsunami, it was originally begun by architect Manuel Caetano de…