The Palacio Nacional was built in the 14th century by Dom Joao I, who lived here with his wife Philippa of Lancaster, daughter of John of Gaunt. 

The kitchen of the Palacio Nacional, where cooking was done in the open in the middle of the floor.  That's why they needed those big fat white chimneys. 

Looking upward through a chimney.

The blue tiles are called "azulejos," and they're everywhere in Lisbon and the surrounding area.  I never would have thought I'd find them attractive, but they're actually very nice.  I even began to wonder whether I might redecorate my kitchen with them, but now that I'm back home and I've thought it over, I believe I'll just leave the azulejos to the Portuguese.

Nice, huh?

Lyn and Janet enjoying a whole room full of 'em.

Azulejoses everywhere

A gazillion of 'em

Nice door frame

Excellent place for a picnic

Nice view, too