English
English
Contents
A fairytale day at Pena Palace: What to see and do
Ornate stuccos
Inside Pena Palace, the walls and ceilings are covered in intricate stucco work, patterned columns, and Moorish-style arches. Many rooms feature trompe-l’oeil, a painting technique that tricks the eye into seeing depth where there is none. The chapel from the original monastery still stands, a quiet contrast to the palace’s later, more theatrical designs.
The Queen’s Terrace
The Queen’s Terrace is one of the best spots for the palace’s layout and surroundings. From here, you can see the Sintra Valley, the Moorish Castle, and, on clear days, the ocean in one direction and Lisbon in the other. Directly ahead, the High Cross marks the highest point of the Sintra mountain range.
The chapel
The Chapel of Our Lady of Pena is one of the few parts of the original monastery that survived the earthquake that led to the palace’s construction. It’s small, unadorned, and centered around its altar—simple compared to the rest of Pena but still deeply tied to its history.
King Carlos’ office
King Carlos used this room for both work and painting. His unfinished murals, depicting woodland scenes from the Park of Pena, still hang on the walls. His death in 1908, along with that of his eldest son, cut short both his reign and his artistic projects, leaving parts of the room as he left them.
The watchtowers
The palace is lined with watchtowers, each with a different shape and design. Some have battlements, some are rounded, and one even has a drawbridge. They offer a full view of Sintra from one of the highest points in the region. The palace, split between its pink former monastery and yellow newer wing, was named one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders in 2007.
The Manueline cloister
The Manueline Cloister belonged to the original monastery and was later modified by Ferdinand II, who added a double staircase. It follows the same visitor route once reserved for the royal family. Some of the monastery’s original features remain, including the dining hall, sacristy, and Manueline-Renaissance chapel.
The Courtyard of Arches
This open terrace is lined with arches framing views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Sintra Hills. It also overlooks the Park of Pena, a forested landscape designed by Ferdinand II, who brought in trees from around the world to transform the rugged terrain into a carefully planned garden.
The royal dining room
This is where the royal family dined, surrounded by heavy furniture, paintings, and tapestries. The table is still set with fine china and silverware, a glimpse into the formal meals that once took place here.
The staterooms
Pena Palace was a summer retreat; its staterooms reflect that balance of luxury and practicality. The layout includes a dining room, bedrooms, reception halls like the Salão Nobre, and gathering spaces like the Sala de Visitas. The rooms are filled with 19th-century furniture, still arranged as they were when the palace was in use.
Frequently asked questions and answers about what’s inside Pena Palace
What can I see inside Pena Palace?
Inside Pena Palace, you can explore a variety of opulent rooms, including the Great Hall, the Queen's Terrace, and King Carlos' Office. These spaces showcase 19th-century royal splendor and eclectic architectural styles. Additionally, there are dining rooms, pantries, chapels, and courtyards, providing a comprehensive view of palace life and history.
What is the significance of the Chapel inside Pena Palace?
The Chapel of Our Lady of Pena is one of the few remaining original structures from the former monastery that once stood on the site. Despite its modest size, the chapel boasts intricate details and serves as a testament to the palace's religious heritage.
Can I visit King Carlos' Office?
Yes, you can tour King Carlos' Office, which served as his workspace and adjoins his bedroom. The walls feature paintings by King Carlos himself, depicting scenes from the Park of Pena. These artworks offer a personal glimpse into the king's artistic pursuits.
What are the Watchtowers used for?
The watchtowers of Pena Palace, with their medieval-inspired design, were constructed for both aesthetic appeal and strategic surveillance. Historically, they played a crucial role in monitoring the palace grounds. Today, they offer visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the lush forests of Sintra and the distant Atlantic Ocean.
How long does it take to tour the interior of Pena Palace?
To fully appreciate the interior of Pena Palace, it's recommended to allocate at least 40 minutes for the staterooms and an additional 30 minutes for the terraces and chapel. However, many visitors choose to spend more time exploring the various rooms and soaking in the rich history.
Are there guided tours available inside the palace?
Yes, guided tours are available for visitors who wish to gain deeper insights into the history, architecture, and stories behind Pena Palace. These tours often provide access to areas not available during self-guided visits