Sintra
Trip Start
Jul 24, 2012
1
25
147
Trip End
Dec 17, 2012
Sintra Municipality, Estremadura, Portugal
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Apparently Sintra was originally a largely barren hill that was transformed into a mosaic of flora from all over the world including, Brazil, USA, Japan, and many other countries. We visited 2 castles in Sintra the first, Pena National Palace began as a monastery in the 1500's and then was renovated by King Don Fernando II in the late 1800's after being abandoned by the monks. This palace was very beautiful with the typical Portuguese tile and bright colors but also gargoyles and statues bringing in styles of many different cultures, especially Germany where the king was originally from. However, the real treasure was the gardens. They were amazing. Mentioned above, the trees were imported from all over the world was a monumental task but one that creates an almost fairy tale feel, as Nicole remarked she thought this would be a place where fairy's would live. The second was the Regaleira Palace which was Nicole's favorite, not for the palace but the underground tunnels. These tunnels would take you between a waterfall, an unfinished well and a subterranean tower 27 meters deep. It was pitch black in these tunnels and people were using their phones as flashlights. The tunnels would weave all through the gardens and it was a surprise where you would come out. We hope you enjoy the pictures and videos which can only give a glimpse of what Sintra is really like.
Comments
we love seeing and reading about your travels. I know you are having fun!!