Cultural Landscape of Sintra
Portugal ·
Description
Sintra is a romantic dream made stone. Pena Palace, painted yellow and red, crowns a misty hill. The National Palace shows its conical chimneys, while Quinta da Regaleira hides initiatic grottos and inverted wells. Byron called it 'glorious Eden' and forests of giant ferns prove him right.
Why It's a World Heritage Site
Sintra pioneered European Romantic architecture in the 19th century. Palaces, gardens and parks create a unique cultural landscape where architecture and nature merge. The influence of Manueline, Gothic, Moorish and Renaissance styles creates an unparalleled eclectic ensemble.
UNESCO Criteria
Frequently Asked Questions
For pioneering European architectural Romanticism and creating a unique landscape of palaces and gardens.
It was inscribed in 1995 under criteria (ii), (iv) and (v).
Main ones are Pena, National, Regaleira, Monserrate and Moorish Castle.
One full day minimum; two days to visit everything without rushing.
40 minutes by train from Rossio; then bus 434 to the palaces.