Pena Palace
It all begins with an idea.
Pena Palace, it’s so beautiful, no wonder it’s the most visited site in Lisbon.
Pena Palace is a Romanticist castle and a notable example of 19th-century architecture. Built between 1842 and 1854, it was commissioned by King Ferdinand II and is perched atop one of the highest points in the Sintra mountains, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The palace is characterized by its vibrant colors, eclectic styles, and intricate decorative elements that blend Gothic, Manueline, Moorish, and Renaissance influences. Its distinctive yellow and red facades, along with ornate towers and whimsical turrets, create a fairy-tale appearance.
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Inside, the palace features richly decorated rooms, including the grandiose Great Hall, the Chapel of Our Lady of Pena, and the King and Queen's suites, each showcasing a combination of opulent furnishings and artistic details. The interior design reflects the Romantic ideals of the time, emphasizing a mix of historical references and imaginative creativity.
The surrounding park, which also belongs to the palace, is expansive and includes diverse plant species, walking trails, and additional structures such as the Chalet of the Countess of Edla. Pena Palace is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts visitors from around the world, who come to appreciate both its architectural significance and the natural beauty of its setting.
The palace was occupied by nobility until 1910 when they fled to Brazil to avoid an impending revolution. Thankfully Pena Palace has been meticulously restored to its former romantic glory.
Sintra can get very busy with tourists and for good reason, it truly is a world class destination. The Palace and gardens are far less busy in the winter months. To save a lot of time you need to book your tickets before you get there and avoid the unnecessary line (there is a line for tickets before you enter the Palace in another line).
