Hospicio da Princeza Dona Maria Amelia

Welcome to the 19th-century sanatorium that’s so grand, it practically screams “Neoclassical with a twist!” This place is like the aristocrat of buildings, with a sprawling rectangular layout and all kinds of architectural flair. The design is anything but boring: the middle sections are set back like they’re being modest, while the ends and center push forward, giving the whole place a “here I am” kind of vibe. And just to make sure you don’t miss it, there’s a tower smack in the middle that says, “Look up!”

The facades are all about symmetry, with windows that line up like they’re in a marching band, framed with fancy stone that’s either smooth as butter or has teeth (don’t worry, it’s just decorative). There’s a bit of English influence, but with local flair — think British manners, but with a Madeiran soul. And the best part? It’s surrounded by a park with century-old trees, so it’s like a palace in the middle of an enchanted forest.

Now, here’s where it gets really interesting: this place has royal connections! We’re talking ties to the royal families of Brazil, Germany, and Sweden. Oh, and did I mention the drama? A Brazilian princess passed away here, adding a whole new layer to its history. It’s like something out of a Romantic novel, complete with mysterious architecture and enough royal intrigue to make anyone feel like they’ve stepped into a mid-19th-century soap opera.

So, if you’re ready to take a stroll through a piece of Romantic history, complete with fancy facades, royal vibes, and a tower that just won’t quit, this sanatorium is your spot. It’s as grand as it gets, with a side of mystery and a whole lot of style.