Highlights of the National Palace of Sintra

Highlights of the National Palace of Sintra:
 

1. Palace Square

2. Arcades

3. Entrance Hall & Archers' Hall

4. Swan room and Great Hall 

5. Room of Magpies

6. Chamber of Gold

7. Room of Mermaids (Wardrobe)

8. Dressing Room

9. Crown Room

10. Room of Galleys

11. Passage to the Prince's Garden

12. Chambers of King João III & Corridor

13. Hall of Coats of Arms
     

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Palace Square - As you approach the National Palace of Sintra, you'll be greeted by the grand Terreiro do Palácio, a historic square that used to bustle with activity. This open space, once surrounded by bustling buildings, was transformed into Sintra's main square. Take a moment to admire the 16th-century fountain with a tower, a possible nod to the enchanting village of Sintra itself.

Arcades - Ascend the steps from the Terreiro do Palácio and enter through the majestic Gothic arches, known as the palace's arcades. These arches represent the noble power, as they were the place where contracts, wills, and important documents were sealed by notaries and judges who served the Queen. Step into a world where deals were made and history was written.

​Entrance Hall & Archers' Hall - Climb the stairs to the right, and you'll find yourself in the Entrance Hall, a space adorned with a fountain on one side and a model of the National Palace of Sintra on the other. This room connects two Royal Palaces: one built during the reign of King João I in the 15th century and another from the reign of King Manuel I in the 16th century. Feel the weight of history as you stand between these two regal era

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The Swans room (Great Hall) - Step into the magnificent Room of Swans, the first hall of the Palace, where grand banquets, musical events, and festive celebrations took place. Admire the intricately painted ceiling depicting swans in graceful motion. Then, venture into the Courtyards, adorned with Renaissance columns, Moorish tiles, and a central tank that has stood since the 16th century. From here, you'll catch glimpses of the enchanting chimneys of the palace's kitchen.





















Room of Magpies
Enter the Room of Magpies, where King João I and Queen Filipa resided. Let your eyes wander across the ancient Seville tiles that adorn the walls and admire the ceiling, painted with 136 magpies, a symbol of intelligence. This room, once a place of royal audiences, now reveals a grand fireplace and a luxurious 17th-century desk that once held important documents. The Magpies are related to an interesting Story about betrayal between the King and one of the consorts to the Queen. Read more about this here.

Chamber of Gold - Immerse yourself in the opulence of the Chamber of Gold, also known as the King's Chamber. This room, where King João I and Queen Filipa received important guests, was once covered in gold during the 15th and 16th centuries. Today, a magnificent Italian-influenced bed takes center stage, adorned with mythological scenes and a crimson canopy. Don't miss the intricate details, such as the silver-plated coat of arms of the Counts of Sabugal.


















 

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