The Pena Palace, also known as Palacio Nacional de Pena, is a picturesque 19th-century castle located in the Sintra Mountains in Portugal. It is considered one of the most remarkable examples of Romantic architecture in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace was commissioned by King Ferdinand II, who wanted to create a summer residence that seamlessly blended neo-Gothic, neo-Manueline, Islamic, and Renaissance elements. Construction began in 1840 and was completed by 1885.
Visitors can tour the palace and its surrounding gardens. The palace is colorful and eclectic, with walls featuring bright blue, yellow, and red tones. It is also adorned with intricate tiles, sculptures, and ornate detailing. The interior reflects the style and tastes of King Ferdinand II, with rooms decorated in a mix of different styles, including Romantic, Moorish, and medieval. Some notable features of the palace’s interior include the grand dining room, the chapel, the music room, and the queen’s bedroom.
The palace grounds cover over 200 hectares and offer visitors plenty of opportunities to explore. There are several hiking trails, lakes, and gardens to discover, including the Fern Valley, the Azulejo Lane, and the Queen’s Gardens. Visitors can also take a tram to the highest point of the palace, where they will find the Cruz Alta viewpoint.
While the palace is an impressive attraction, it can get extremely busy with tourists during peak season. To avoid crowds, visitors may want to arrive early in the day or opt to tour the palace grounds only. Walking through the gardens is a peaceful and scenic way to take in the castle’s beauty without the crowds.
Sintra is a charming town located just outside of Lisbon, and it is known for its many historic palaces and castles. Visitors can easily spend several days exploring the area and its many attractions. Some other popular sites to visit include the Quinta da Regaleira, a gothic-style mansion and gardens filled with hidden tunnels and grottos, and the Moorish Castle, a medieval fortress with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
The Monserate Palace is another noteworthy attraction in the area. This palace was built in the 19th century and is known for its beautiful gardens featuring exotic plants from around the world. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and admire the palace’s unique blend of Gothic, Indian, and Moorish architecture.
Overall, the Pena Palace is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Sintra. Its unique blend of architectural styles and beautiful gardens make it a truly remarkable site. Visitors should plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the palace and its grounds, and arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds. With so many other historic sites and palaces in the area, visitors will have no shortage of things to see and do in Sintra.
Posted by simonevanbergen on 2018-09-15 15:13:24