Pena Palace

Pena Palace's history is rich and fascinating. It all began in the Middle Ages when a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Pena was constructed on the site. In the 15th century, a monastery was built around the chapel, known as the Hieronymite Monastery of Our Lady of Pena.

Fast forward to the 19th century, Portugal's King Ferdinand II acquired the old monastery and surrounding lands in 1838. Inspired by the Romantic movement sweeping Europe, Ferdinand dreamed of transforming the site into a summer residence befitting his vision of a fairytale castle.

Architect Baron Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege was tasked with bringing Ferdinand's vision to life. Construction began in 1842, and over the next 15 years, the palace took shape, blending various architectural styles, including Neo-Gothic, Neo-Manueline, Neo-Islamic, and Neo-Renaissance.

The palace's vibrant colors, intricate stonework, and whimsical design elements, including turrets, towers, and battlements, were meant to evoke a sense of fantasy and romance. Ferdinand's wife, Queen Maria II, also contributed to the palace's design, infusing it with her own aesthetic preferences.

Upon completion in 1857, Pena Palace became the summer residence of the Portuguese royal family. It served as a retreat where they could escape the hustle and bustle of the capital, Lisbon, and enjoy the picturesque surroundings of the Sintra Mountains.

Following the abolition of the monarchy in 1910, Pena Palace was converted into a museum and opened to the public. In 1995, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognizing its cultural significance and unique architectural blend.

Today, Pena Palace remains one of Portugal's most visited attractions, drawing tourists from around the world with its fairy tale charm, stunning vistas, and rich historical legacy.