Pena Palace | Sintra

Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena) is one of Portugal's most iconic and stunning landmarks, located in Sintra, a town just outside Lisbon. The palace is renowned for its fairytale-like appearance, eclectic architectural style, and breathtaking location atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. It is also one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

1. Historical Background

• Construction and Origins: Pena Palace was originally constructed as a monastic chapel, the Monastery of Our Lady of Pena, in the 16th century. However, the current palace, as we see it today, was built in the mid-19th century, during the reign of King Ferdinand II (Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha), who married Queen Maria II of Portugal.
• King Ferdinand II's Vision: The transformation of the former monastery into a palace began in 1840, when King Ferdinand II purchased the monastery and its surrounding land. He commissioned the construction of the new palace, combining the old monastery's chapel with new structures in an innovative and eclectic architectural style. The work was overseen by the German architect Bartholomeu de Oliveira and later expanded by Vitoriano Valsassina.
• Royal Residence: The palace became a royal residence and a summer retreat for the Portuguese royal family. The palace was used until the Republican Revolution of 1910, after which the monarchy was abolished, and the palace became a public museum.

2. Architectural Style

Pena Palace is famous for its eclectic architectural style, blending various elements of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Moorish influences. The design was intentionally dramatic and whimsical, reflecting the romantic tastes of the 19th century.

• Gothic and Moorish Elements: The palace features Gothic arches, pointed towers, and Moorish-style decorations, such as intricate tiles and domes. The Moorish influence is evident in the palace’s decorative elements, with vibrant tile work, ornate windows, and spires reminiscent of Islamic architecture.
• Renaissance and Baroque Features: The palace also incorporates Renaissance and Baroque features, including the use of symmetry, ornate ceilings, and sculptural elements like statues and busts.
• Colorful Exterior: One of the most striking aspects of the palace is its vivid, multi-colored exterior. The palace is painted in bright shades of yellow, red, and pink, with vibrant blue and green tiles adorning the towers and walls. This color scheme gives the palace an otherworldly, fantastical look.
• The Tower of Dona Maria: One of the defining features of the palace is the Tower of Dona Maria, a central octagonal tower that rises high above the surrounding grounds. This tower is topped with a yellow dome and offers panoramic views of the Sintra area.
• The Palace’s Walls and Gardens: Surrounding the palace are lush gardens and terraces that are equally whimsical. The Park of Pena (Parque da Pena), surrounding the palace, is a 19th-century romantic park featuring diverse landscapes, pathways, and hidden spaces. The park includes lakes, waterfalls, and a wide variety of plant species, many of them exotic.

3. Key Features and Rooms

• The Courtyard: Upon entering the palace, visitors are greeted by a central courtyard with ornate arches and an impressive entrance. The courtyard offers a clear view of the palace's many architectural styles.
• The Grand Hall (Sala dos Cabelos): This room, often referred to as the Hall of Heads or Sala dos Cabelos, is one of the palace's most ornate. It features walls adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, including various heads of notable figures.
• The Throne Room: The Throne Room (Sala do Trono) is a grand space with high ceilings, opulent furnishings, and a prominent throne. The room is adorned with exquisite decorative details that reflect the monarchy's splendor and the romantic style of the 19th century.
• Royal Apartments: The palace’s Royal Apartments include beautifully furnished rooms, including the Queen’s Room and King’s Room, showcasing the 19th-century royal lifestyle. The rooms feature rich tapestries, regal furniture, and antique artifacts.
• The Chapel of Pena: One of the most impressive features of the palace is the Chapel of Pena, which dates back to the original monastery. The chapel is richly decorated with gold leaf, stained glass, and intricate woodwork, creating a space that reflects both the religious history of the site and the ornate tastes of the royal family.
• The Terrace: At the top of the palace, the terrace offers sweeping views of the town of Sintra, the nearby Moorish Castle, and the surrounding Sintra mountains. On clear days, visitors can see as far as Lisbon and the Atlantic Ocean.

4. Park and Gardens

• Romantic Garden Style: The Park of Pena surrounding the palace is one of the most beautiful in Portugal, designed in the romantic style of the 19th century. The park contains numerous walking trails, exotic trees, hidden caves, and ponds.
• Walking Trails: Visitors can explore a network of walking trails through the park, each offering different perspectives of the palace and the surrounding landscape. The park is home to a variety of plants, many of which were imported from other parts of the world, creating a lush and diverse environment.
• The Valley of the Lakes: One of the highlights of the park is the Valley of the Lakes, which features artificial lakes, waterfalls, and a variety of sculptures.
• The Queen's Throne: At the far end of the park, there is a viewing spot known as the Queen’s Throne (Trono da Rainha), which offers breathtaking views of the palace and the surrounding area.

5. Visitor Experience

• Guided Tours: Visitors can explore Pena Palace on their own or join a guided tour. The guided tours offer detailed insights into the history, architecture, and stories behind the palace and its royal inhabitants.
• Opening Hours: Pena Palace is open to the public every day of the year, though opening hours can vary depending on the season. It is advisable to check ahead before visiting, especially during holidays.
• Ticket Prices: The palace offers a variety of ticket options, including tickets that grant access to both the palace and the surrounding park. The prices for entrance to the palace and park may vary based on the season, with discounts for children and groups.

6. Getting There

• From Lisbon: Pena Palace is located in Sintra, about a 40-minute drive or a short train ride from Lisbon. The train station in Sintra is just a few kilometers from the palace, and visitors can either take a taxi, shuttle bus, or enjoy a scenic walk up the hill to the palace.
• Public Transportation: From Sintra’s train station, there is a public bus (Scotturb) that goes directly to the entrance of the palace. Many tourists opt to take this bus, which is a convenient way to reach the top without the steep hike.

7. Conclusion

Pena Palace is a must-see destination for visitors to Portugal, offering a rich blend of architectural beauty, royal history, and stunning landscapes. Its whimsical and colorful appearance, combined with its strategic location and rich cultural heritage, make it a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty, Pena Palace is sure to leave a lasting impression.