The Pena Palace in Portugal: History, Amazing Facts, and Things to Do
The Pena Palace in Portugal is a magnificent palace situated on the top of a hill overlooking the town of Sintra, Portugal. It is one of the most iconic symbols of Portugal and is a popular tourist destination. The palace was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 and is one of the seven wonders of Portugal.
History of the Pena Palace
The Pena Palace was built in the 19th century by King Ferdinand II of Portugal. The palace was built on the site of a former monastery that had been destroyed by an earthquake in 1755. It is a mix of architectural styles, combining elements of the Romanticism, Gothic, and Manueline styles.
The palace was designed by the German architect Baron Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege and was intended to be a summer residence for the Portuguese royal family. Construction of the palace began in 1839 and was completed in 1854.
The palace has a long and interesting history. During the 19th century, it was the summer residence of the Portuguese royal family. After the overthrow of the monarchy in 1910, the palace was abandoned and fell into disrepair. In 1940, it was opened to the public as a museum and has since become a popular tourist destination.
Amazing Facts About the Pena Palace
The Pena Palace is one of the most recognizable symbols of Portugal and is one of the seven wonders of Portugal. Here are some amazing facts about the palace:
• The palace is a mix of architectural styles, combining elements of the Romanticism, Gothic, and Manueline styles.
• The palace was built on the site of a former monastery that had been destroyed by an earthquake in 1755.
• The palace has over 150 rooms and is filled with ornate decorations, including painted tiles, azulejos, and intricate carvings.
• The palace is surrounded by a lush garden, which is filled with exotic plants and trees from around the world.
• The palace is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, peacocks, and other birds.
Things to Do at the Pena Palace
The Pena Palace is a popular tourist destination and there are many things to do at the palace. Here are some of the top things to do at the Pena Palace:
• Explore the palace: The palace is filled with ornate decorations, including painted tiles, azulejos, and intricate carvings. Take a guided tour of the palace to learn more about its history and architecture.
• Visit the gardens: The palace is surrounded by a lush garden, which is filled with exotic plants and trees from around the world. Take a stroll through the gardens and admire the beauty of nature.
• Enjoy the wildlife: The palace is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, peacocks, and other birds. Enjoy watching the animals as they roam around the grounds.
• Take in the views: The palace is situated on the top of a hill overlooking the town of Sintra. Take in the stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside.
The Pena Palace in Portugal is a magnificent palace filled with history and beauty. It is one of the most iconic symbols of Portugal and is a popular tourist destination. If you are ever in Portugal, make sure to visit the Pena Palace to experience its beauty and learn more about its history.