The Castle from Portuguese Fairy Tales – National Palace of Pena
The National Palace of Pena served as the summer retreat for Portuguese royalty, dazzling with its flamboyant, eccentric, and ornate appearance resembling a storybook castle. The palace itself is an architectural amalgamation, blending Gothic, Renaissance, Moorish, and Manueline styles. It stands as the masterpiece of Ferdinand II, husband to Queen Maria II of Portugal in the 19th century. Construction began in 1840 and was completed in 1885, the year of Ferdinand's death. Other nobility in the region built their residences following similar principles, establishing Sintra as the epicenter of European Romantic architecture. Its park and garden designs profoundly influenced later landscape architecture. Recognized for its exceptional cultural value, the National Palace of Pena was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.
The castle, majestically built against the mountain, stands tall and magnificent. Every stone seems to whisper ancient tales, allowing visitors to hear the echoes of history. Strolling through the castle feels like traveling through time, returning to an era filled with mystery and romance.
The castle is surrounded by lush greenery and fragrant flowers. Standing at the high point of the castle, you can overlook the breathtaking scenery of Sintra, filling your heart with joy. Here, you can experience the perfect fusion of nature's masterpiece and human ingenuity.
The Moorish Castle is not only a witness to history but also a source of inspiration for fairy tales. Here, you can experience fairy-tale romance and mystery, as if stepping into a dreamlike kingdom.
When visiting Portugal, don't miss the Moorish Castle in Sintra. It will make your trip more memorable and deeply touch your soul.
The Park and Palace of Monserrate is located 4 km from Sintra, featuring an exquisite garden and a palace that stands as a unique testament to 19th-century eclectic design. Francis Cook, who held the title of Viscount of Monserrate, purchased the property and collaborated with architect James Knowles to renovate the remaining structure of the house. By 1866, the Park and Palace of Monserrate was completed, blending Gothic and Indian styles with Moorish architectural elements. Together with the National Palace of Pena, it became a significant exemplar of Portuguese Romantic architecture.
