Pioneering project restores the Tiled Canal of the National Palace of Queluz

Parques de Sintra is set to return the Tiled Canal, one of the most iconic features of the Gardens of the National Palace of Queluz, to its original splendour. The area will be fully restored and will once again feature the reflecting water surface that characterised it in the 18th century, recreating for visitors the atmosphere and experiences of the time when the Royal Family and court would glide along its calm waters (held by a system of sluice gates) in boats, admiring the fanciful landscapes depicted on the large tile panels. These compositions, inspired by engravings, portray seaports and varied scenic vistas.

João Sousa Rego, Chair of the Board of Directors of Parques de Sintra, highlights: ‘The Tiled Canal of Queluz is a living testament to Portuguese art, engineering, and cultural heritage, and one that must be preserved. The restoration project we are undertaking has a dual purpose: on the one hand, to ensure the safeguarding of this remarkable historic ensemble; and on the other, to recreate the atmosphere of the original water lake and return it to the enjoyment of visitors, allowing them to relive the experiences once shared by the Royal Family and court in this unique setting.’

According to João Sousa Rego, ‘This intervention perfectly embodies the three guiding principles that steer Parques de Sintra’s mission: it enhances heritage and promotes a more authentic visitor experience; it deepens collaboration with the scientific community through a partnership with the National Laboratory for Civil Engineering (LNEC); and it tests innovative and sustainable solutions to preserve built heritage for future generations. In a pioneering effort in Portugal, Parques de Sintra has decided to carry out pilot interventions on site to test and evaluate the most suitable materials and techniques before the final restoration works. These trials are supported scientifically by the LNEC and follow the best national and European practices for the conservation and restoration of outdoor tilework.’

A multidisciplinary project to recreate a dreamlike scene

The restoration of the Tiled Canal is a complex, multidisciplinary project encompassing several phases and areas of expertise. Currently underway is the stage dedicated to testing and implementing conservation and restoration methodologies for the tile surfaces, in collaboration with the LNEC, under a protocol established with Parques de Sintra. This step is essential in determining the best possible solutions to ensure the recovery, conservation, and enhancement of this cultural and artistic heritage.

Analyses have already been completed to identify the materials to be used, and during November the defined methodologies will begin to be applied, with the aim of restoring the grandeur and original brilliance of the tile panels.

The final phase of the intervention will involve reinstating the reflective water surface that once stretched along the entire Canal, through the installation of a retractable system beneath the sluice bridge, enabling the formation of a temporary lake during the summer months. This feature will be deactivated in the rainy season to maintain natural balance and ensure proper water flow.

The Tiled Canal, through which the Jamor Stream flows, extends for 120 metres and runs north to south through the Queluz gardens, representing one of the most original features in the garden design of its time. The inner side walls of the canal are decorated with around fifty thousand tiles, not including those of the central block. In keeping with the playful character of the space, it was once complemented by the Lake House, also known as the Chinese House or Music House.

In this small pavilion, the Queen’s chamber musicians would perform on summer afternoons when the canal was filled with water, while the Royal Family and their guests drifted by in small boats — memories of a dreamlike setting that this project will once again bring to life, restoring the enchantment of the past for all who visit the Historic Gardens of the National Palace of Queluz.