Explore Pena Palace | Highlights, Visitor's Guide, History & More

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Pena Palace, situated on the Sintra Mountains in Portugal, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its architectural brilliance. This captivating palace boasts a unique blend of Romantic, Gothic, and Moorish influences, enchanting visitors with its vibrant colours and fairytale-like charm. Set amidst lush greenery, Pena Palace offers stunning panoramic views, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Plan your visit to explore the rich history and immerse yourself in the magical ambience of Pena Palace.

Quick Facts About Pena Palace

  • Official name: Palácio Nacional da Pena
  • Location: Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal
  • Date of opening: 1854
  • Architect: Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege and Nicolau Pires
  • Architectural style: Romanticism, Gothic Revival and Moorish architectural style
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site: Since 1995
  • Number of visitors per year: 1.5 million visitors 
  • Function: Summer residence for the Portuguese royal family

Plan Your Visit to Pena Palace

Opening Hours
Location

Things to Do at Pena Palace

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.

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.

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.

History of Pena Palace In A Nutshell

15th Century - During the reign of King Manuel I in the 15th century, a monastery dedicated to Our Lady of Pena was built on the site. The monastery was characterized by its serene location and simple architecture.

18th Century - By the 18th century, the monastery fell into disrepair and was severely damaged by lightning strikes and an earthquake in 1755, leaving it in ruins.

19th Century - In 1838, King Ferdinand II, a German prince married to Queen Maria II of Portugal, acquired the ruins and surrounding land. Inspired by the Romanticism movement, he embarked on an ambitious project to transform the site into a lavish summer residence for the royal family.

1842 - The construction of Pena Palace began in 1842 under the supervision of German architect Baron Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege. The palace's design incorporated a fusion of architectural styles, including Romantic, Gothic, and Moorish influences, reflecting the king's artistic vision.

1854 - After extensive work spanning over a decade, Pena Palace was completed in 1854, and the royal family could finally enjoy their splendid retreat amidst the Sintra Mountains.

20th Century - In the early 20th century, after the abolition of the monarchy, Pena Palace was turned into a museum, opening its doors to the public. It has since become one of Portugal's most visited cultural landmarks.

1995 - Pena Palace and the surrounding cultural landscape of Sintra were collectively designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, acknowledging its historical and architectural significance.

Present Day - Today, Pena Palace stands as an enchanting testament to Portugal's rich history and architectural brilliance, attracting millions of visitors each year.

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 architecture and design of Pena Palace is an exquisite fusion of diverse styles, creating a captivating and fairy-tale-like masterpiece. Originally designed by German architect Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege, the palace boasts an eclectic mix of Romanticism, Gothic Revival and Moorish influences. Its striking facade showcases intricate stonework and ornate detailing, making it a visual marvel against the lush backdrop of the Sintra Mountains.

The palace's layout and construction were meticulously planned to harmonize with the natural contours of the terrain. Towering turrets, domes, and decorative battlements add a touch of grandeur, while the incorporation of Islamic and Oriental architectural elements adds an exotic allure. The interior of Pena Palace is equally impressive, featuring lavishly decorated rooms adorned with opulent furnishings, magnificent chandeliers and delicate tilework. Today, Pena Palace stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a testament to architectural brilliance and artistic ingenuity that continues to captivate the hearts and imaginations of visitors from around the world.

More about Pena Palace

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.

Pena Palace Tickets and Tours

Tickets to the National Palace of Pena & Park
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Tickets to the National Palace of Pena & Park with Audio Guide
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€18.9
Combo (Save 10%): Quinta da Regaleira + National Palace of Pena & Park Tickets
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€33.08
Combo (Save 5%): Lisbon Card + National Palace of Pena & Park Tickets
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€34.1
Combo (Save 5%): National Palace of Pena & Park + Moorish Castle Tickets
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€20.8
Full-Day Guided Tour of Sintra and Pena Palace from Lisbon
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4 hr. 30 min.
Guided Tour
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Guided Tour of Quinta da Regaleira & Pena Palace in Sintra
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10 hr.
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Guided Tour of Sintra, Cabo da Roca, Cascais & Pena Palace from Lisbon
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8 hr.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Pena Palace in Sintra

What is Pena Palace?

Pena Palace is an enchanting 19th-century royal retreat in Sintra, Portugal.

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.

Who designed Pena Palace?

Pena Palace was designed by Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege and Nicolau Pires.

When was Pena Palace built?

Pena Palace was built between 1842 and 1854.

Where is Pena Palace located?

Pena Palace is located in Sintra, Portugal. The official address is Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal. Find on Maps here.

How can I get to Pena Palace?

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

What are the Pena Palace timings?

Pena Palace is open every day from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM. The last entry is at 6:00 PM.

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.