Category: About Sintra

Make the most of your visit to the Pena Palace with our tips. Rising above the hills of Sintra, the colourful Pena Palace looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. With its bold architecture, dramatic setting and rich history, it is one of Portugal’s most iconic monuments and a must-see for anyone visiting the region. However, a visit to Pena Palace involves more than simply admiring its striking façades. From understanding its fascinating past to choosing the right ticket, planning the best way to get there, and knowing what to expect on the day, a little preparation can make all the difference. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know before visiting Pena Palace. Including its history, ticket options, transportation tips, and practical advice to help you make the most of your experience in Sintra. Pena Palace History The majestic Pena Palace, which today enchants hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, began its story in a remarkably modest way. Its origins date back to the 12th century, when a small chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Pena was built on this hilltop. In the 16th century, during the reign of King D. Manuel I, the site was transformed into a monastery belonging to the Order of Saint Jerome. The monastery remained active until 1834, when religious orders were extinguished in Portugal, after which the buildings were abandoned and fell into gradual decay. Everything changed in 1838, when the ruins were acquired by King D. Fernando II, the consort king of Portugal. A true visionary and a passionate supporter of the arts, D. Fernando II imagined something entirely new for this place. Under his direction, the former monastery was transformed into the extraordinary Romantic palace we see today, surrounded by equally imaginative gardens. When visiting the