Pena Palace: A Must-Visit Destination in Portugal
Pena Palace is a stunning castle located in Sintra, Portugal, that was built in the Romanticism style of architecture. It's a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors every year.
The palace is known for its colorful and elaborate design, breathtaking gardens, and rich history. In this article, we'll explore some Pena Palace facts and places to visit near Pena Palace.
Pena Palace Facts
Description of Pena Palace
Pena Palace is a castle located on a hilltop in the Sintra Mountains, overlooking the town of Sintra. It was built in the mid-19th century by King Ferdinand II, who was inspired by the romantic architecture of Germany and other European countries. The palace has a mix of different architectural styles, including Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance.
History of Pena Palace
The history of Pena Palace dates back to the Middle Ages, when a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Pena was built on the site. In the 16th century, a monastery was built near the chapel, which was later destroyed in the 18th century during the earthquake of 1755. In the mid-19th century, King Ferdinand II acquired the land and started building the palace, which was completed in 1854.
Architecture of Pena Palace
The architecture of Pena Palace is a mix of different styles, including Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance. The palace has several towers, domes, and terraces, and is painted in bright colors such as yellow, red, and blue. The interior of the palace is just as impressive as the exterior, with richly decorated rooms and halls.
Gardens of Pena Palace
The gardens of Pena Palace are just as impressive as the palace itself. The gardens cover an area of 85 hectares and are filled with a wide variety of plants and trees from all over the world. There are several walking trails and viewpoints that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Places to Visit near Pena Palace
Sintra National Palace
Sintra National Palace is a historic palace located in the town of Sintra, just a few kilometers from Pena Palace. The palace dates back to the 15th century and has a mix of Gothic, Manueline, and Moorish architectural styles. It's famous for its beautiful tiled walls and ceilings.
Quinta da Regaleira
Quinta da Regaleira is a beautiful palace and estate located in Sintra, just a few kilometers from Pena Palace. The palace was built in the early 20th century and is known for its elaborate gardens and underground tunnels.
Castle of the Moors
The Castle of the Moors is a medieval castle located in the Sintra Mountains, just a few kilometers from Pena Palace. The castle dates back to the 8th century and was built by the Moors. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Monserrate Palace
Monserrate Palace is a stunning palace and estate located in Sintra, Portugal. The palace was built in the mid-19th century and has a mix of different architectural styles, including Gothic, Indian, and Moorish. It's surrounded by beautiful gardens that are home to a wide variety of plants and trees from all over the world.
How to Get to Pena Palace
By Car
One of the easiest ways to get to Pena Palace is by car. If you're driving from Lisbon, take the A37 motorway to Sintra and then follow the signs to the palace. There's a car park near the palace where you can park your car.
By Train
You can also get to Pena Palace by train. Take the train from Lisbon to Sintra, and then take the 434 bus to the palace. The journey takes around 40 minutes.
By Bus
If you prefer to take the bus, there are several bus companies that operate services to Sintra from Lisbon. Once you're in Sintra, take the 434 bus to Pena Palace.
Conclusion
Pena Palace is a must-visit destination in Portugal that offers a mix of stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich history. Whether you're interested in the palace's history, architecture, or gardens, there's something for everyone to enjoy. And with so many places to visit near Pena Palace, you can easily make a day trip out of your visit.
