Address: Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal
Perched atop the Sintra Mountains, Pena Palace commands a breathtaking view over the picturesque town of Sintra and the rolling hills of Portugal's countryside.
Closest landmark: Sintra National Palace (4 kilometers away)
Getting to Pena PalaceThe park surrounding Pena Palace spans over 200 hectares and is home to over 500 species of trees from around the world, including sequoias, cedars, and ferns. Within the park, you'll find features such as the Queen's Fern Garden, the Valley of Lakes, and the King's Fern Garden, all meticulously landscaped during the 19th century renovation of the palace.
Pena ParkStanding tall at 528 meters above sea level, the High Cross (Cruz Alta) offers panoramic views of the Sintra Mountains and the surrounding countryside. Erected in 1522 by King Manuel I, it serves as a landmark within the park and a popular destination for visitors seeking breathtaking views. On clear days, one can even catch a glimpse of the Atlantic Ocean in the distance.
Located in the woods of the Pena Park, Countess Edla's Chalet is a charming retreat built in the 19th century for King Ferdinand II's second wife, Elise Hensler, who was later granted the title of Countess of Edla. This picturesque chalet features Swiss-style architecture with ornate wooden carvings, reflecting the romantic tastes of the era.
The Chapel of Our Lady of Pena is a small religious sanctuary. Built in the Romantic style during the mid-19th century, it features intricate stonework, colorful tiles, and ornate stained glass windows depicting religious scenes. The chapel served as a place of worship for the Portuguese royal family during their stays at the palace.
At the heart of Pena Palace lies the majestic Courtyard, a central hub of activity surrounded by ornate towers, arcades, and galleries. This space features a blend of Moorish, Gothic, and Manueline architectural styles. Adorned with decorative tiles, sculptures, and fountains, the courtyard serves as a focal point for visitors entering the palace.
At the entrance to Pena Palace, the Statue of the Warrior is positioned atop a pedestal adorned with intricate reliefs and decorative motifs. The statue commissioned by King Ferdinand II during the mid-19th century exemplifies the Romantic fascination with medieval imagery and heroic ideals. It depicts a noble knight clad in armor, wielding a sword and shield, ready to defend the palace against any threat.
Pena Palace is a Romanticist castle located in the Sintra Mountains of Portugal. It is known for its colorful exterior, eclectic architecture, and stunning panoramic views.
Pena Palace was built by King Ferdinand II of Portugal in the 19th century. It was constructed on the ruins of an old monastery and was intended to be a summer residence for the Portuguese royal family.
Construction on Pena Palace began in 1842 and was completed in 1854. The palace's design incorporates a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Moorish, Renaissance, and Manueline influences.
Maps of Pena Palace are available at the entrance ticket office or visitor center. You can also download digital maps.
The Pena Palace map includes layouts of the palace grounds, highlighting key attractions, walking paths, viewpoints, amenities, and visitor facilities such as restrooms, cafes, and souvenir shops.
Yes, guided tours of Pena Palace are available for visitors who prefer a more structured and informative experience. Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the palace's history and architecture.
Pena Palace is located in the town of Sintra, approximately 30 kilometers west of Lisbon, Portugal. Visitors can reach Sintra by car, train, or bus from Lisbon, and then take a local bus, taxi, or hike up to the palace entrance.
The amount of time needed to visit Pena Palace can vary depending on individual interests. On average, visitors spend approximately 2 to 3 hours touring the palace interior and exploring the surrounding gardens and parkland.
Some areas of the Pena palace and park may be challenging to navigate for visitors with mobility impairments. Accessible routes and facilities are available, but visitors may encounter uneven terrain and steep inclines in certain areas.
The staff at Pena Palace speak multiple languages, including Portuguese and English. Some staff members may also speak additional languages.