Perched on top of a hill in the Sintra Mountains, the National Palace of Pena stands as a vibrant blend of Romanticism, Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance architectural styles. It was originally built as a monastery in the Middle Ages but was later transformed into a summer residence for the Portuguese royal family in the 19th century.
As you approach the palace, you’ll be captivated by its vibrant colors and intricate detailing. The exterior of the palace is adorned with a stunning mix of yellows, pinks, blues, and greens, creating a fairy tale-like appearance. Towers, turrets, and domes rise from the structure, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the picturesque town of Sintra.
Entering the palace grounds, you’ll find yourself immersed in a beautiful park filled with exotic trees and plants from around the world. The park is meticulously landscaped, featuring winding paths, romantic gardens, and hidden grottos that add to the magical ambiance of the place. Keep an eye out for the Queen’s Fern Garden, which showcases an impressive collection of ferns.
Inside the palace, you’ll discover a richly decorated interior that reflects the eclectic tastes of the Portuguese royal family. Each room has its own unique charm, boasting vibrant colors, intricate tilework, ornate furniture, and beautiful tapestries. The highlight is undoubtedly the Arab Room, adorned with intricate geometric patterns, stunning tilework, and a domed ceiling that transports you to another time and place.
While exploring the palace, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the chapel, where you can admire its exquisite stained glass windows and ornamental details. You can also step onto the palace’s balconies and terraces to marvel at the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the rolling hills, dense forests, and the distant Atlantic Ocean.
Visit Notes
The palace is a beautiful and fascinating place to visit. We spent a couple of hours there, taking in all of the incredible details found throughout. There is a dazzling array of tiles found covering walls and floors in rich, vibrant colors. I’m telling you, my camera got a workout during this visit.
My absolute favorite part of the palace exterior is Triton’s Terrace. The detail on this gateway is just exquisite and you’ll never forget Triton’s menacing glare.
Be sure not to miss the Parque da Pena, the gardens surrounding the palace. They are well worth your time and will allow you to get away from the crowds at the palace.
As far as the interior of the palace… my two cents is to skip it. I have been to the palace twice, the first time we did the interior tour and I have zero recollection of it. It doesn’t help that you’re not allowed to take pictures while inside. Since it’s that forgettable, spend your time touring the gardens instead.
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