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It is not as colourful as Pena Palace and not as crowded. Most visitors will miss this gem in the midst of the Sintra mountain. Matter of fact, most visitors will pass by the entrance to the Biester mansion on their way to Pena Palace. The Biester mansion was closed for a long time and in really bad decay. You can see a glimpse of the wild gardens and decaying entrance in the movie "The Ninth Gate" (1999 by Roman Polanski, with Johnny Depp in the main role - Read more about the film here). For a long time, Biester Palace remained closed, suffering from neglect and decay. In fact, you might catch a glimpse of its wild gardens and crumbling entrance in the movie "The Ninth Gate" when Johnny Depp - in the role of the rare-book dealer Dean Corso - enters the main entrance: see it here)
But don't let its past deter you! After a remarkable two-year restoration period, this lesser-known palace opened its doors to the public on April 30th, 2022. The gardens, once in ruins, have been lovingly restored to their former glory, and let us tell you, they are a sight to behold! These gardens rival those of other grand estates in Sintra, showcasing the opulence and beauty of the Gilded Age in Portugal.
The Biester Palace Gardens feature lush, exotic vegetation with a unique harmony
During this era, wealthy aristocrats, bankers, merchants, and individuals with old fortunes created magnificent summer residences in the Sintra mountains. Each estate competed with the others in terms of eccentricity and splendor, and Biester Palace, though more of a mansion, was no exception. The Palace was built in 1886 by Frederico Biester, member of one of the wealthiest banking dynasties in Portugal. You can read about them in our article "Lost in Time: The Chamiço Banking Family's Rise, Fall, and Lasting Impact"
Now, you might be wondering, what sets Biester Palace apart from the other architectural and artistic wonders in Sintra? Well, let's start with the architect behind its construction - José Luís Monteiro. Renowned for his work on the Rossio Station nave and the expansion of Parque Eduardo VII (alongside engineer Frederico Ressano Garcia), Monteiro employed a captivating architectural style known as Queen Anne, a delightful blend of neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque elements. Unique Features of the Biester Palace
While Quinta da Regaleira boasts the intriguing Initiation Well and Monserrate Palace showcases its extensive gardens, and let's not forget the iconic Pena Palace, Biester Palace offers its own unique charm. Step inside, and you'll be transported to a world of architectural splendor and artistic opulence. The most interesting - and definitely distinctive - features of this Palace are: the Masonic and Templar Initiation Chamber in the basement, the private chapel in a romantic, neo-gothic style, full of Knights Templar motifs and the first mechanical elevator in a private home in Portugal.
The private Chapel in the 1. Floor of the Palace is a true beauty, colourful and mysterious!
The living room of the Biester Palace was a remarkable example of opulence and rich artistry in wood carving works in 1880s
Watch this short Video about a visit into the interior of the Masonic Chamber in the basement of the Biester Palace: Watch here on Youtube
So, if you're seeking a hidden treasure off the beaten path in Sintra, make sure to add Biester Palace to your must-visit list. Explore its rich history, admire the meticulously restored gardens, and marvel at the architectural marvel that embodies the spirit of the Gilded Age in Portugal.
Opening times and tickets for the Biester Palace
If you want to visit the Biester Palace we recommend to buy tickets in advance. You can purchase your entrance tickets online through us: Buy here During the months of April to September, Biester Palace welcomes visitors from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm. This extended opening time allows ample opportunity to explore the palace's grandeur and immerse yourself in its captivating history. Last entry is at 7:00 pm, ensuring plenty of time to admire the palace's architectural marvels and wander through its splendid gardens.
As autumn sets in, from October to March, Biester Palace adjusts its opening hours. During this period, visitors can explore the palace's treasures from 10:00 am to 6:30 pm, with the last entry at 5:30 pm. Although the days may be shorter, the magic of Biester Palace remains undiminished, offering a unique experience in the tranquil ambiance of the off-season.
It is important to note that Biester Palace is closed on January 1st and December 25th. Official Website: https://www.biester.pt/index.php
Read more about Biester Palace in the following articles published by Sintraexplorers:
Is the Biester Chalet haunted?
Embracing the Darkness to see the Light: Follow me into a Secret Masonic Chamber in a haunted Mansion
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