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Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra
Quinta da Regaleira is a unique place to visit while in Sintra. The place has several rooms, corridors, lakes, fountais and secret passages, that visitors will be able to enjoy. The whole property is a mix of different architectural styles, from Renaissance, Gothic and Romantic.
As visitor, you will find an amazing decorative elements with different influences, such as freemasonry, alchemy, templars and Rosicrucians. During the 19th century, Sintra was recognized as one of the first cradles of romantic architecture in Europe. Sintra has is own climate due to the influence of the mountains, with different types of vegetation, some of them, not native, but brought to Portugal after the Age of Discoveries.
The green vegetation and trees accummulate water, from humidity you will be able to feel during the visit. Separated by more or less 10 miles (in direct line) from the Atlantic Coast, it is common to have fog. The temperature usually is around 3 to 5º Celsius degrees less, comparing with Lisbon.
Origin of Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra
Quinta da Regaleira, is near Sintra historic center. It was designed and built in the late 1800s. The concept reflects the cultural, philosophical, and scientific interests of his own: António Augusto de Carvalho Monteiro (1848-1920). He lived the end of the monarchy and the beginning of the Republican governors of Portugal.
The owner was also known as Monteiro dos Milhões (Moneybags Monteiro) who together with the architect a scenographer Luigi Manini (Italian, 1848-1936) constructed one of the most unique palaces till today. During 20 years António Monteiro spent his time renovating and building Quinta da Regaleira, which become his spiritual retreat.
What will you see at Quinta a Regaleira?
On one of the main paths into the estate is the Promenade of the Gods. Stone statues of Venus, Hermes, Dionysus, and many other Greek gods and goddesses line this pathway, some intertwined with plants. Dionysus is featured throughout the estate. He’s a symbol of the mysteries of the Free Masons:
Palace Exterior
Quinta da Regaleira Palace’s exterior is a mix of different construction styles. You will find the building with Gothic, Egyptian, Moorish, Neo-Manueline, and Renaissance features. Gargoyles and gothic turrets are present in the decoration. Naturally, there are gothic turrets and gargoyles. Embrace the moment when you are there, and observe the beautiful balcony, windows, and decoration in general. It is part of Portuguese history and the impact it has in Sintra, Portugal.
Palace Interior
The Quinta da Regaleira Palace has several floors, where you will find the common rooms, dining room, and music room, among other divisions. The decoration you will find beautiful ornate fireplaces, very elaborate wooden ceilings, and of course inlaid mosaics. More than an exhaustive description, it is time to explore respecting the rules of the Palace.
Garden
Several paths to follow, however, the Promenade of the Gods has amazing and fantastic statues such as Hermes, Dionysus, and Venus among other Gods.
The Initiation Well
Initiation Well at Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra is the most visited spot on the property. Mysterious Masonic rites, convocations, and ceremonies give him fame. It is 90 feet staircase and contains nine platforms in a mention to the Divine Comedy by Dante. You will find at the bottom of the well, a mosaic depicting a Rosicrucian-type cross over a compass.
Tunnels in the Garden
You will find several tunnels in the Garden during your visit. Dark, with waterfalls or even on the floor, besides some small lakes. In the initiation well, at the bottom, you will find a passageway, totally hidden from the top. It will lead to different tunnels beneath the garden.
Some of them have light strips, which helps visitors nowadays. It is common to find people and families making echoes. Funny moments while visiting the tunnels in the Garden of Quinta da Regaleira. Our advice is to use the flashlight from your mobile phone (don’t drop it).
Follies in the Garden
The garden at Quinta da Regaleira is studded with moss-covered fountains, benches, caves, and grottos. While you walk around the garden, you will find follies or even decorative structures. Nature is the element, perhaps also the reason why took so many years to build or rebuild the property.
Chapel
Most of the oldest properties have a chapel in Portugal, due to its long connection with the Roman Catholic religion. His interior is richly decorated with stained glass windows, lavish stuccoes, and frescos. It’s a tiny chapel in terms of size, however, has several floors and a subterranean pathway. Of course, it connects to the main house, as usual in many other monuments in Portugal.
Any tour to Sintra to visit Quinta da Regaleira Palace?
We organize private Sintra full-day tours to Sintra and include a ticket to visit. Check more info about the private sightseeing tours we have available in this region. Private Tours include pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation. Let us know where you will stay during the booking process.
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They´re famous and delicious cookies. You can easily buy some in Cascais in almost all coffee shops. Worth to try if you love sweet cookies.