Sintra: Everything You Must See In An Unforgettable City

The beautiful Portuguese village of Sintra is nestled in a beautiful natural park. It is located very close to the also wonderful capital of Portugal, Lisbon. There are many places that this Portuguese corner hides, and we want to show you some. They are so beautiful, that in 1995 Sintra was declared a World Heritage Site. 

Sintra, a place of legend

Tourists from all over the world travel to Sintra every day. All eager to walk through this Eden full of nature, and Sintra has splendid gardens. In addition, contemplating its legendary buildings, authentic stories, always leaves you wanting more.

1. The spectacular Palacio da Pena

Initially, this palace was a monastery for friars. King Ferdinand II acquired it and turned it into this wonderful construction. He made it as a spectacular gift for his wife, Queen Maria of Portugal .

It is located on a hill from which you can see a wonderful landscape. And from afar it impresses its great color and its particular style. A construction that really seems fantasy and from which it is almost impossible to take your eyes off.

And it is that in this palace red and yellow combine to perfection, while an exquisite variety of styles is perceived. It has motifs that refer to both religious themes and mythological characters. An example of this is the so-called giant Adamastor, which represents the danger that Portuguese sailors faced when they began some journey in the great ocean.

Inside, among other incredible places, a unique patio stands out. All of it covered with blue and white tiles, in an Arabic style.

2. The wonderful Quinta da Regaleira

This captivating and spiritual place is full of mysticism and secrets. It was built by the architect Luigi Manini, who traveled throughout Portugal and Europe collecting data to make this beautiful work. He did so at the request of the Portuguese nobleman Antonio Carvalho.

Rising towards the sky is the palace, with its imposing tower. It is a work in which romantic, neo-Gothic, Manueline and even mythological elements are combined.

But here, above all, you should take time to stroll through its fabulous and enigmatic gardens. They are wonderful and full of mysteries and enigmas. The legends affirm that in them Masonic rites took place. In fact, images related to them are everywhere.

Walking through this orchard, beautiful fountains appear before our eyes, such as Abundance, or small buildings. Also tunnels and secret passages. However, what is most striking about this space is its initiation well,  which symbolizes Dante’s hell.

3. The beautiful Palace of Monserrate

Although this unique palace is not as large as the previous ones, it has a lot to offer. It is an unknown place for many, since it is located on the outskirts of the city.

It was erected by the architect James Knowles in the 19th century at the request of the English Baron Francis Cook, one of the richest Britons of the time. The palace stands out for its magnificent circular tower and for its wonderful vaults.

The interior is decorated with ornamentation in a clear oriental style. The structure is surrounded by a fantastic garden with plants brought from all over the world. We can end the tour by making a stop at the wonderful palace esplanade, where we can admire the waterfalls and the greenery of this impressive Portuguese corner.

4. Castello dos Mouros

Not far from the Palacio da Pena is the place with the most history of this fantastic city. We are talking about the castle dos Mouros. In times past it was occupied by the Arabs. They chose it as a strategic point, since it is located in a high place. In fact, it is one of the highest places in the mountains that surrounds the town and has spectacular views.

Later it changed inhabitants. It was occupied by the Christians, under the command of the first Lusitanian king. We refer to Alfonso I of Portugal. Although the castle is not complete, some remains of the wall are still preserved, as well as five towers. To access these ruins, you pass through a horseshoe-shaped arch.

They are four jewels of Sintra. And there would still be one more: the National Palace, which stands out for its two huge and particular chimneys and a beautifully decorated interior with tiles.