The Quinta da Regaleira

A remarkable home with mesmerising gardens full of secrets

Designed by the Italian architect Luigi Manini, the Quinta de Regaleira consists of a Romantic palace and chapel, and a luxurious park that features crazy and playful constructions. Its deep well with spiral staircase which you can walk down is one of Sintra’s most infamous sites and one that you really shouldn’t miss out on visiting.

The original owner was a wealthy Brazilian who made his fortune from mining and one who had a fascination with the order of the Knights Templar and all things secretive, hence the quirky constructions throughout the grounds.

The palace is also known as "The Palace of Monteiro the Millionaire", which is based on the nickname of its best known former owner, António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro. The palace itself is characterised by exuberantly Gothic pinnacles, gargoyles and an impressive octagonal tower.

Sintra can get very busy with tourists and for good reason, it truly is a world class destination. But to save a lot of time you need to book your tickets before you get there and avoid unnecessary queuing.

45 minutes from Lisbon by train.

Quinta de Regaleira Sintra is located Here