The Palácio do Raio is a palace designed in the Baroque era and one of the most ornate palaces in Portugal. The initial construction was requested by João Duarte de Faria, which was a knight of the Order of Christ. André Soares is the architect to whom the commission was given and he began construction from 1754-1755.
Soares was already famous in the area at the time because he had shown extreme talent in his engineering and artistic projects. Generally, his works are defined by natural elements, and in some pieces there are shells, wreaths, garlands, and even jars. Soares worked at the end of the Baroque period and the start of Rococo. This residence has gone through several hands, including Miguel José Raio, which was named the Palace of Raio during this time.
In 1993 this location became a conservation project, and much of the damage to the sculptures, stonework, and installation was repaired.