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Everything you need to know about Pena Palace and Moorish Castle combo tickets

Pena Palace and Moorish Castle combo tickets

Pena Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a castle located on the Sintra Mountains in Portugal. It is known for its multicolored façade and 19th-century Portuguese architecture style. The Moorish Castle is an ancient fortress located next to Pena Palace, it showcases Moorish architecture and is known for its strategic position and formidable medieval wall. Learn all about how you can visit these two historically significant attractions with one ticket!

What’s included in the combo tour?

Entry tickets to the National Palace of Pena & Park
Round-trip transport for Pena Palace (optional addition)
Entry tickets to Moorish Castle

Please note that there is an expected wait time of 15-20 mins at the entrance/security for both attractions

Cancellation Policy: These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled

Book your combo ticket

Why you should purchase a combo ticket

Cost Efficiency: A combo ticket provides significant cost savings compared to purchasing individual tickets for each attraction.
Comprehensive Experience: By visiting both Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle you gain an understanding of Sintra's history and architectural diversity.
Convenient Access: You can plan your itinerary more efficiently and enjoy the convenience of not having to purchase separate tickets at each site.
Scenic Views: Both Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making the combo ticket ideal for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Historical Significance: Exploring Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle together offers insights into different periods of Portuguese history. From the romanticism of the 19th century to the medieval Moorish occupation.

Why you should visit Pena Palace

Architectural Significance: Constructed in the 19th century during the Romanticism period. Pena Palace showcases a fusion of various architectural styles, including Gothic, Moorish, Renaissance, and Manueline. The palace's striking multicolored façade makes it a prime example of Romanticism architecture.
Cultural Heritage: Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Pena Palace was commissioned by King Ferdinand II, the palace served as a summer residence for the Portuguese royal family.
Scenic Beauty: Located on the Sintra Mountains, Pena Palace offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including forests, rolling hills, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Visitor Experience: Visitors have the opportunity to explore the palace's state rooms, chapel, and royal apartments, as well as wander through the picturesque gardens adorned with plant species from around the world including orchids and jasmines.

Plan your visit to Pena Palace

Why you should visit Moorish Castle

Historical Significance: Constructed during the 8th and 9th centuries by the Moors, it served as a strategic defensive fortress, guarding the region against invasions and territorial disputes from neighboring kingdoms and other invaders.
Architectural Heritage: The Moorish Castle showcases exemplary Moorish military architecture, characterized by its stone walls, watchtowers, and defensive battlements.
Educational Experience: Interpretive exhibits and guided tours offer insights into the fortress's construction, strategic importance, and historical context.
Military Engineering. Moorish Castle’s defensive features, such as crenellated walls, battlements, and fortified towers, demonstrate the strategic foresight of medieval engineers in designing fortresses.

Highlights of Pena Palace

Architecture

Colorful Facades

Royal Residence

Chapel of Our Lady of Pena

Surrounding Gardens

Pena Palace is renowned for its unique fusion of architectural styles, blending Neo-Gothic, Neo-Manueline, Neo-Islamic, and Neo-Renaissance elements.
Neo-Gothic features include pointed arches.
Neo-Manueline motifs incorporate maritime symbols and ornate detailing.
Neo-Islamic influences are seen in horseshoe arches and geometric patterns.
Neo-Renaissance characteristics include grand facades.

One of the most striking features of Pena Palace is its vividly painted facades. The palace is painted in bright shades of red, yellow, and blue, giving it a fairy tale-like appearance.

Originally constructed as a summer retreat for the Portuguese royal family, Pena Palace served as a luxurious residence where they could escape the heat of Lisbon and enjoy the cooler climate of the Sintra hills.

This small chapel is located within the park and is worth a visit for its beautiful tilework, stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and decorative tile panels.

The palace is surrounded by the beautiful Park of Pena, a 500-acre park with lush gardens, lakes, and walking trails. It also features winding pathways, hidden grottos, and exotic plant species including Camellias and ferns. Highlights include the Valley of the Lakes, the Fern Garden, and the Queen's Fern Valley.

Highlights of Moorish Castle

Second Ring of Walls

Church of São Pedro de Canaferrim

Arms Square

Door of Betrayal

Following the capture of the Moorish Castle by Afonso Henriques, the king of Portugal entrusted its defense to the Knights Templar, a medieval Christian military order. This conquest prompted a significant overhaul of the fortress, including the construction of a second ring of walls designed to safeguard livestock and crops.

After the Moors were defeated, the Church of São Pedro de Canaferrim emerged as Sintra's inaugural parish church. Crafted from granite stone masonry, its apse showcases intricate Gothic paintings originating from the 15th century.

Moorish Castle - arms square - fountain and bench

The expansive Arms Square, once a hub for military gatherings within the castle, underwent a transformation in the 19th century. The transformation included a reduction in military presence and the installation of benches, seating areas, fountains and sculptures, because of these changes the space transformed into a tranquil and relaxing area.

Nestled within the secluded and rugged section of the castle lies the Door of Betrayal. This secret entrance provided a discreet means of exiting the castle in times of need, yet it also posed a vulnerability, potentially granting enemies access to the inside of the castle.

Visitor Tips

Plan Your Timing: Both Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle are popular tourist destinations, especially during peak season. Consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Both Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle involve walking uphill and navigating uneven terrain. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and exploring.
Respect the Heritage: Remember to respect the historical and cultural significance of both attractions by following any posted rules and regulations.
Weather Considerations: The weather in Sintra can be unpredictable, with frequent changes and occasional fog or mist. Bring layers and waterproof clothing, as well as sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.
Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour of either Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, or both. Guided tours can provide valuable insights into the history, architecture, and significance of these landmarks.
Accessibility: Both Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle involve navigating stairs, uneven pathways, and steep inclines. If you have mobility concerns, inquire about accessibility options and plan your visit accordingly.

Frequently asked questions and answers about Pena Palace and Moorish Castle combo tickets

What are Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle?

Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle are two historic landmarks located in Sintra, Portugal. Pena Palace is a colorful 19th-century Romanticist castle, while the Moorish Castle is a medieval hilltop fortress with panoramic views.

What is included in the combo ticket for Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle?

The combo ticket includes admission to both Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle, allowing visitors to explore both attractions on the same day.

Where are Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle located?

Both Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle are situated in the town of Sintra, which is approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Lisbon, Portugal.

How much time should I allocate for visiting Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle?

The amount of time needed to explore each attraction can vary depending on individual preferences and interests. Generally, visitors spend around 1-2 hours at each site, but you may want to allocate more time for leisurely exploration.

Are there guided tours available for Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle?

Yes, both Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle offer guided tours led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the history, architecture, and significance of each site

How do I get to Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle?

Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle are accessible by various means of transportation, including car, bus, taxi, or on foot. There are designated parking areas near both attractions, and public transportation options are available from Sintra town center.

Are there any restrictions or guidelines for visiting Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle?

Visitors are encouraged to respect the heritage and natural surroundings of both attractions by adhering to posted rules and regulations, such as staying on designated pathways and refraining from littering.

What are the main highlights of Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle?

Pena Palace boasts vibrant architecture, colorful facades, extensive gardens, and panoramic views. The Moorish Castle features medieval fortifications, panoramic views and historic ruins.

How accessible are Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle for visitors with mobility issues?

Both Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle have areas with stairs, uneven terrain, and steep inclines. Visitors with mobility concerns should inquire about accessibility options and plan their visit accordingly.