The former great hall is the largest room in the palace where receptions, feasts and banquets, and major ceremonies were held. Built by King João I in the early 15th century, it's known as the Hall of Swans for the 27 wooden octagonal panels painted with swans (cisnes) that adorn the ceiling. Each swan wears a gilded collar and the birds are set in graceful repose in naturalistic backgrounds. Checkerboard patterned green and white azulejo tile panels enhance the walls. Among the decorative art on display is a set of quirky animal shaped Chinese porcelain tureens manufactured in the late 18th century during the Qing dynasty.