Pena Palace: A Guide to Visiting the Iconic Castle in Sintra

Pena Palace

Built in the Romanticism style in the 19th century, The Pena Palace is surrounded by lush gardens and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

In this article, we’ll provide a guide to visiting the Pena Palace, including everything you need to know about Pena Palace  history, architecture, and guided tours.

History of the Pena Palace

The Pena Palace was built in the 19th century on the ruins of a 16th-century monastery. The palace was commissioned by King Ferdinand II as a summer residence for the Portuguese royal family.

King Ferdinand was an avid collector of art and antiques, and he used the palace to showcase his collection. The palace was designed by German architect Baron Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege and built between 1842 and 1854.

Architecture of the Pena Palace

The Pena Palace is a prime example of the Romanticism architectural style, which was popular in the 19th century. The palace combines elements of Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline architecture, and features brightly colored facades and ornate detailing.

The palace’s most iconic feature is its pair of conical towers, which can be seen from miles away. Visitors can also explore the palace’s interior, which is filled with intricate carvings, colorful tiles, and ornate furnishings.

Guided Tours of the Pena Palace

To get the most out of your visit to the Pena Palace, we highly recommend taking a Pena Palace guided tour. Guided tours are available in multiple languages, and offer a wealth of information about the palace’s history, architecture, and art collections.

The tours typically last about an hour and a half, and cover both the interior and exterior of the palace. During the tour, you’ll learn about the palace’s construction, the royal family’s life at the palace, and the art collections housed within the palace. You’ll also get a chance to explore the palace’s lush gardens, which feature a variety of exotic plants and trees.

Tips for Visiting the Pena Palace

If you’re planning a visit to the Pena Palace, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Buy your tickets online in advance to avoid long lines at the entrance.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the palace and gardens.
• Bring a camera, as there are plenty of photo opportunities throughout the palace and gardens.
• Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, as the palace can get very busy in the afternoon.
• Take a guided tour to get the most out of your visit.
• Getting to the Pena Palace
• The Pena Palace is located in the town of Sintra, which is about 30 kilometers outside of Lisbon. The easiest way to get to Sintra is by train from Lisbon’s Rossio station. From Sintra station, you can take a bus or tuk-tuk to the palace entrance. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or rent a car and drive to the palace.

Conclusion

The Pena Palace is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Portugal. With its colorful facades, ornate interiors, and stunning gardens, the palace offers a glimpse into the opulence and grandeur of the Portuguese royal family.

To make the most of your visit, be sure to take a guided tour and follow our tips for visiting the palace. And don’t forget to bring your camera – you’ll want to capture every moment of your visit. (CW)