This week, the CCPH team enjoyed a team outing to the beautiful Palácio de Monserrate in Sintra. Beyond its remarkable architecture and gardens, Monserrate also holds a unique place in the shared history of Portugal and the Netherlands.
During the Second World War, the palace served as a temporary refuge for diplomats, journalists, artists and others fleeing Nazi-occupied Europe. Among them was the Dutch diplomat Baron Harinxma thoe Slooten and his wife, who coordinated support for a community of Dutch refugees living near Praia das Maçãs before the couple moved to the neighbouring Quinta da Bela Vista.
As a Chamber dedicated to strengthening ties between Portugal and the Netherlands, it was inspiring to discover another chapter that reflects the longstanding connections between our two countries.