Pena Palace

Pena Palace

Lisboa

90/10090 min

Pena Palace, located in Sintra on the Portuguese Riviera, is a striking example of 19th-century Romanticism and one of Portugal's most iconic monuments. Originally a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Pena, the site evolved into a monastery in the 16th century before being devastated by lightning and the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. In the mid-19th century, King Ferdinand II transformed the ruins into a vibrant palace, commissioning a Romantic style redesign that incorporated Neo-Gothic, Neo-Manueline, Neo-Islamic, and Neo-Renaissance elements. The palace's eclectic architecture, colorful façades, and commanding hilltop location make it visually stunning and historically significant. It served as a royal summer residence and was later acquired by the Portuguese state, becoming a national monument and museum. Today, Pena Palace attracts visitors worldwide, offering a sensory experience amid lush gardens and misty mountain views, embodying the artistic vision of its creator, King Ferdinand II.

Planifiez votre voyage en Portugal avec l'IA

Créez un itinéraire détaillé en quelques minutes. L'IA suggère les meilleurs endroits, restaurants et un itinéraire optimisé.

Astuce: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and enjoy the palace in softer light. Tickets must be purchased with a date and time reservation in advance. Consider buying combined tickets for the palace and park to explore both fully. Discounts are available for youth, seniors, and families. Use public transport from Lisbon to Sintra and then bus 434 to reach the palace. Wear comfortable shoes for walking the hilly park paths and be prepared for possible mist or fog common in the area.

Faits intéressants

  • Pena Palace is one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal.
  • It was built on the ruins of a 16th-century monastery dedicated to Our Lady of Pena.
  • The palace incorporates Neo-Gothic, Neo-Manueline, Neo-Islamic, and Neo-Renaissance architectural styles.
  • King Ferdinand II, an amateur architect and artist, personally influenced many decorative details.
  • The palace can be seen from Lisbon on clear days due to its hilltop location.
  • It was the last residence of Queen Amélia before the Portuguese monarchy ended.
  • The palace was once visually gray but was restored to its original vibrant colors by the late 20th century.

Histoire

The site began as a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Pena in the late 15th century, commissioned after a reported apparition.

1755

King Manuel I established a monastery there in the 16th century, which housed monks for centuries until damaged by lightning and severely ruined by the 1755 earthquake.

1838

In 1838, King Ferdinand II acquired the ruins and surrounding lands, transforming the remains into a Romantic palace between 1842 and 1854, blending multiple architectural styles.

1889

The palace became a royal summer residence and was later sold to the Portuguese state in 1889.

1910

It was declared a national monument in 1910 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, cementing its cultural importance.

Guide du lieu

1
Convent Section and Clock Tower16th century

The restored structure of the original 16th-century monastery and its clock tower, representing the historical core of the palace complex.

2
Arches Yard and Chapel16th century
Nicolau Chanterene (artworks)

An open courtyard with Moorish-style arches leading to the chapel, featuring marble and alabaster works attributed to Nicolau Chanterene.

3
Palatial Zone and Cylindric Bastion1840s
Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege and King Ferdinand II

The main residential area with interiors decorated in a cathedral style, including ornate windows inspired by the Convent of the Order of Christ in Tomar.

Contact

Téléphone: 21 923 7300

Map