Loves Makes Us Do Extraordinary Things -Pena Palace

Pena Palace located in the municipality of Sintra was built by King Ferdinand II for his wife Queen Maria II beginning construction in 1842 and completed in 1847 with additions being made in 1854.  The palace sits on top of old monastery ruins.  The King was deeply in love with his wife and hired Wilhelm Ludwig von Eschwege to construct the palace.  Wilhelm is known for the many castles in Germany that he constructed.  The style of the castle was greatly influenced by the King and Queen and they pulled their influence from many great constructions throughout the world such as Gothic architecture to Moorish architecture thus leading to such a unique design.  Today the castle is considered a UNESCO heritage site and is one of the Portugals' Seven Wonders.  The Pena Palace is really stunning and at 14 Euros you can see the palace and its grounds.  The Palace sits on top of a very steep hill.  My friend and I took a tuk-tuk ride to the palace entrance where we purchased tickets.  If you don't mind the walk from there you will save yourself another 6 euros for the short bus ride to the actual palace itself.  Since we were short on time we paid for the ride to the castle.  I have to admit that we made a mistake in not leaving more time for this city because there really is so much more to see like the National Palace, the Moorish Ruins, and the Initiation Well.  Sintra in and of itself is very unique because King Ferdinand II was a pioneer for diversity in the forest located in the national park.  There are trees from all over the world.  It was also the playground for the wealthy and Royalty.  The town center is charming and the streets and alleyways are lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and shops. I guess this means I am going to have to go back.
































Comments

Villrose said…
A fantastic palace, and city as well!
Lydia C. Lee said…
That's so gorgeous!! #WednesdayAroundtheWorld
Dearest Kelleyn,
Wow, did not expect any tuk-tuk in Portugal. Familiar with those in India or Indonesia where we saw many.
That tuk-tuk driver must have had strong muscles for getting up hill!!!
Lovely architecture and also your photos are all spectacular.
Hugs,
Mariette
kwarkito said…
I like this incredible place. A long walk to access the castle, but a nice place to visit
Thank you for showing me this journey
Einari Sinappi said…
Wonderfull place, ab fab.
NCSue said…
Wow! You had a really cool trip with lots of great shots! Thanks for sharing at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2021/10/i-dont-like-that-there.html
betty-NZ said…
Wow, what a tribute to his lovely lady.

Thanks for sharing your link at My Corner of the World this week!

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