Monuments

Also known as the Sala dos Capelos, this Ceremonial Hall was the old Throne Room. Here some of the University's most important ceremonies are held, such as the investiture of the University Rectors, the opening of the academic year and the conferring of doctorates.

It was remodelled in the second half of the 16th century by the architect Marcos Pires and then once more in the mid-17th century by António Tavares. The wooden panelled ceiling was painted by Jacinto Pereira da Costa. The walls are covered with royal portraits from the late 17th century, whilst their bottom half is lined with polychrome azulejos from the same period. Running around the room at a higher level is a set of stalls where the Doctors sit during academic ceremonies. At the top is the chair where the Rector sits to preside over the various events.