Santa Clara 1728

Category: Hotels

Location: Lisbon, Portugal

 Lisbon is a particular kind of town – with its rich history, beautiful buildings and interesting places. It has developed organically over its seven hills into the messy, chaotic and charming city it is known as today. 

From early morning to late at night, the air sings in Lisbon, full of the sounds of people meeting for breakfast, lunch, dinner or whatever can be found in-between. The traffic is equally noisy.

In a place as energetic as the Portuguese capital, the most important thing is to have a place to retreat to, for unwinding and relaxation. 

Fortunately, Lisbon is home to Santa Clara 1728, one of the select places that make up the small collection of hotels known as “Silent Living”. 

The hotel is situated in an 18th century townhouse, located in the old cultural quarters of the Santa Clara area. The owner, João Rodrigues, stumbled on the building when looking for a place for himself and his family. 

It has a beautiful view of the National Pantheon (formerly Santa Engrácia), whose dome is synonymous with Lisbon. 

It is also only a few steps away from São Vicente de Fora, which also holds a key position in the history of the city. 

Together with architect Manuel Aires Mateus, Rodriquez transformed the top floor into a private home for his family, while the remaining stories became a hotel, with only six (exquisitely decorated) rooms, all comfortable and spacious. Particular attention has been paid to the design of the bathrooms. 

The name “Silent living” hints at how this hotel aligns with the slow philosophy – the food here is organic and locally sourced. The architecture uses real materials, reflecting an aspiration for the timeless. 

All interiors have been designed by Antonio Citterio (known for his work with B&B Italia). 

Staying here includes complimentary fresh pastries and walking maps of the city, planned out by the hotel to highlight places of particular interest to the hotel guests. 

If your stay includes a Tuesday or a Saturday, the town’s best flea market, Feira da Ladra, takes place quite literally on your doorstep. If you desire to be outside but want to avoid the crowded streets, the hotel has its own private courtyard garden.

After checkout, we were greeted by a 1970 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow, which took us for a lovely drive through the city and onto our next adventure.