This extraordinary neoclassic building was outlined by José Costa e Silva and ordered to be built by the 2nd Marquis of Pombal in Queluz. The exterior spaces are developed around a central oval foyer. The sculptures were done by a sculptor from Mafra School, Francisco Leal da Costa and the stuccos pictorial decoration on the walls and ceilings is from Manuel da Costa.

Inside the building, it is worthy to mention the Main Room, the dining room from the ends of the 18th century and painted in frescoes by Pillement. The Queen D. Carlota Joaquina was incarcerated here after refusing to swear loyalty to the 1822 Constitution. Presently it has the São José College belonging to the Portuguese Dominican Sisters.