Banner of the Regimento de Milícias de Guimarães n.º 15 (Militia Regiment of Guimarães no. 15)
Author: Unknown
Origin: Unknown
Dating: 19th century
Material: Silk
Dimensions (cm): 218 x 224
Inv. no.: PD1195
Military regimental flag composed of several silk trapezoids arranged in a circular alternation: blue, beige, mustard yellow, beige. In the center, there is a shield with the Portuguese arms and the royal crown of King João VI and a cartouche with the inscription “R. DE MELICIAS. DEGVIMARAENS. N. 15” (Regiment of Militia of Guimarães No. 15).
The colors white, blue, and yellow were used to identify the specific regiment of the Guimarães militia.
The Palace as a Military Barracks
At the beginning of the 19th century, in response to societal transformations and successive participations in wars – namely the Franco-Spanish invasions – Portugal reorganized its army, thus giving rise to new regiments, military barracks and uniforms.
Between 1807 and 1935, the Ducal Palace was occupied by several military regiments, among which were the 15th Infantry Regiment, the 20th Infantry Regiment and the 2nd Machine Gun Battalion.
The idea of using the Ducal Palace as a Military Barracks predates the French invasions. In a letter dated from 1790, the Corregedor of Guimarães (Magistrate) – José Diogo Mascarenhas Neto – proposed to the king that the Palace be remodelled for the quartering of troops.
The 15th Infantry Regiment, which would come to occupy the Ducal Palace in 1816, still quartered in other locations, fwas called to participate in several decisive actions, both nationally and internationally, among which was the Battle of Buçaco, fought during the third French invasion commanded by Massena.
The 20th Infantry Regiment is known for its participation in the First World War, particularly at the Battle of La Lys. Portugal lost approximately 7500 men in this battle, 557 of whom departed from the Ducal Palace.
Despite the Ducal Palace having been occupied for this military function for 128 years, almost no trace remain of such presence.