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Explore Pena Palace's highlights, history & more

King Ferdinand's transformation of Pena Palace into a summer retreat brought splendor to Sintra, now a UNESCO site. This Romanticism pinnacle radiates Ferdinand II's artistic legacy with vivid colors set against lush greenery and turrets that each...

Founded On

1854

Founded By

Baron Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege

Pena Palace Pena Palace

Quick information

RECOMMENDED DURATION

3 hours

VISITORS PER YEAR

3200000

NUMBER OF ENTRANCES

2

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

1-2 hours (Peak), 30-60 mins (Off Peak)

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE

0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

UNESCO YEAR

1995

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Did you know?

Ferdinand II's artistic touch graced Pena Palace with a unique color scheme—red for the original monastery and yellow for the extension. The palace's blend of bright hues and Islamic influences harmoniously coexists with medieval European accents.

Easily visible from Sintra town, Pena Palace boasts yellow minarets and rich parapets. Delve into the "purple wing" within to discover intriguing interior spaces.

In homage to his second wife, the Countess of Edla, Ferdinand II constructed the Chalet of the Countess of Edla—a double-story building seamlessly blending with its urban surroundings.

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Pena Palace Tickets and Tours

Pena Palace & Park Tickets
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Pena Palace Guided Tour
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Pena Palace & Park Tickets with Audio Guide
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Combo (Save 5%): Pena Palace & Quinta da Regaleira Tickets
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The Pena Palace of Sintra is a Romanticist castle completed in 1854. It is situated on a top of a hill above the town of Sintra and can be easily spotted from Lisbon on a clear day. The national monument known for its architectural features and vast forested park welcomes thousands of visitors every year. Read on to find out more about the Pena Palace history, highlights, things to do and lots more before you make a visit. 

Why visit Pena Palace?

Things to Do at Pena Palace

Pena Palace Architecture

Enchanting Architecture

 Pena Palace's extraordinary architecture is a captivating fusion of vibrant colours, intricate stonework, and a blend of Romantic, Gothic, and Moorish styles. The fairy-tale-like appearance of its turrets and domes, coupled with the ornate detailing, makes it an architectural marvel.

Pena Palace Interiors
Pena Palace Breathtaking Views

Breathtaking Views

Perched at an elevation of 500 meters, Pena Palace offers sweeping panoramic views of Sintra and its idyllic surroundings. The sight of misty hills, lush forests, and the distant Atlantic Ocean creates a mesmerizing backdrop for the palace, making it a photographer's paradise.

Pena Palace Park & Gardens
Pena Palace Terrace

The High Cross Terrace

The High Cross Terrace presents a picture-perfect spot to marvel at the palace's colourful facade and the stunning landscape below. Visitors can bask in the beauty of the architecture while taking in the fresh mountain air.

Pena Palace History

How did Pena Palace come to be?

Pena Palace's history is as colorful as its walls. Originally a monastery in the 15th century, it was transformed into a royal palace by King Ferdinand II, who envisioned a summer retreat that combined nature, art, and architecture into one harmonious ensemble. The site of Pena Palace used to be a medieval chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Pena until it was ordered by King Manuel I to build a monastery which was donated to the Order of Saint Jerome. Today, Pena Palace is not only a national treasure but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its architectural innovation and historical significance.

Who built Pena Palace?

Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege, a German architect, was responsible for the initial design and construction of Pena Palace, blending diverse architectural styles to create its enchanting appearance. Nicolau Pires, a Portuguese architect, later contributed to the palace's restoration, ensuring the preservation of its historical and cultural significance for future generations to admire.

Architecture & design of Pena Palace

The Pena Palace houses a rich profusion of styles resembling a lot towards to exotic taste of Romanticism. It houses a mix of several architectural styles such as Neo-Gothic, Neo-Manueline, New-Romanesque along with other Oriental styles such as Neo-Moorish and Indo-Gothic most of which has become prominent since the major renovation in the 1840s.

Many of the elements of the convent were well preserved including the cloister, the dinning, the sacristy and the Manueline-Renaissance chapel. All of it was later moved to the new section of the palace that featured a wide and a clock tower. The key highlight would definitely be the Queen’s Terrace as it displayed a sundial cannon that used to fire daily at noon. The clock tower was completed later in 1843.

More about Pena Palace

Pena Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Pena Palace, a true marvel of architectural ingenuity, is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This prestigious recognition was granted in 1995, celebrating its exceptional cultural and historical significance. The palace's unique blend of Romantic, Gothic, and Moorish styles, set amidst the picturesque Sintra Mountains, showcases the harmonious integration of man-made beauty. As a symbol of Portugal's rich heritage, Pena Palace attracts visitors from across the globe, offering a captivating journey into the opulence and artistic brilliance of the 19th-century royal retreat.

Beyond Pena Palace

Frequently Asked Questions About Pena Palace in Sintra

Why is Pena Palace famous?

 Pena Palace is famous for its stunning architecture, blending Romantic, Gothic and Moorish styles.

What can I do at Pena Palace?

At Pena Palace, you can explore the lavish interiors, enjoy panoramic views and wander through the beautiful gardens.

Are there guided tours available at Pena Palace?

Yes, guided tours are available for a more informative experience.

How can I get to Pena Palace?

You can reach Pena Palace by car, bus, or train from Lisbon.

What is the best time to visit Pena Palace?

The best time to visit Pena Palace is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.

Is Pena Palace wheelchair accessible?

Pena Palace is partially wheelchair accessible, with some areas having limited access.