The National Palace of Sintra – The Heart of Portugal’s Royal History
Sintra is a place where every stone seems to hold a story, and the air itself is filled with ancient legends. If you want to step into the very heart of Portugal’s monarchy, welcome to the National Palace of Sintra – the oldest surviving royal palace in the country.
A Palace That Has Stood the Test of Time
The first mention of a palace on this site dates back to the 10th century when it was a Moorish residence. However, its true history began in the 13th century when Portuguese kings transformed it into their countryside retreat. Over the centuries, it was expanded, renovated, and adorned with new elements, resulting in an eclectic mix of Gothic, Manueline, and Moorish influences.
For centuries, it was a favorite residence of Portuguese monarchs. Here, they escaped the summer heat, held lavish feasts, and welcomed important guests. Many crucial decisions that shaped Portugal’s fate were made within these very walls.
What Makes the Palace Unique?
The Two Giant Chimneys – The palace’s most recognizable feature. These are not towers, but enormous kitchen chimneys where feasts for dozens of guests were once prepared.
The Swan Room (Sala dos Cisnes) – Decorated with 27 painted swans, each unique. Legend has it that King John I adorned this room to celebrate his son’s wedding.
The Magpie Room (Sala das Pegas) – The ceiling is covered in magpies, each holding a scroll with the words "Por bem" ("For good"). Rumor has it that this was the king’s response to court gossip.
The Arab Room – A stunning legacy of the palace’s Moorish past, with intricate geometric patterns and mosaic decorations.
The Azulejo Courtyard – Featuring 15th- and 16th-century tiles, creating a breathtaking display of colors and artistic patterns.
Fascinating Facts About the Palace:
This is the only palace in Portugal that was continuously used by the royal family for over eight centuries – from the Moorish period until the monarchy’s fall in 1910.
During the Middle Ages, lavish feasts were held here, with so much food that guests ate with their hands – forks weren’t in use yet!
The famous Manueline style – The palace is filled with maritime motifs, reflecting Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.
Rumor has it that there are secret tunnels beneath the palace, leading to different parts of Sintra – but they remain a mystery to this day.
How to Get There & Tips for Visitors:
The palace is located in the heart of Sintra and is easily accessible on foot from the train station.
It’s best to book tickets in advance – especially during peak tourist season when the crowds are massive.
To fully experience the atmosphere, take an audio guide or join a guided tour – the stories hidden within these walls are truly worth hearing!
