Battle of Alcácer Quibir
In 1497, under King Manuel I of Portugal, the building was transformed into a royal residence due to its unique location facing the Tagus river and between the centre of Lisbon and the new area of Belém. It was frequently used by Kings Manuel I, John III and Sebastian. In 1510, Gil Vicente presented some of his plays (in Portuguese: "autos") there, and from that location King Sebastian of Portugal left to join the Battle of Alcácer Quibir.