Sintra

Sintra is a town and municipality in the Lisbon District of Portugal, situated on the hilly terrain of the Sintra Mountains about 30 kilometers northwest of Lisbon. It lies within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, an area known for its lush Atlantic climate, forested slopes, and scenic viewpoints. The historic center and surrounding landscape comprise a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape, recognized in 1994 for its integration of art, architecture, and natural beauty.

The town is renowned for its palaces, estates, and medieval remnants set amid wooded hills. Notable monuments include Pena Palace, a colorful Romantic-era castle atop a hill; the Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros) overlooking the town; and Quinta da Regaleira, a country estate with symbolic gardens and grottoes. The National Palace of Sintra (Palácio Nacional de Sintra) near the old town is famous for its distinctive twin chimneys. Other prominent sights include Monserrate Palace and the surrounding gardens. The historic center features narrow lanes, azulejo-covered façades, and market squares that reflect Sintra’s long history as a royal and aristocratic retreat.

Historically, Sintra has been inhabited since ancient times and developed as a summer residence for Portuguese royalty and foreign elites in the 18th and 19th centuries, which shaped its eclectic architectural styles and landscaped grounds.

Today, Sintra relies heavily on tourism and services. It is connected to Lisbon by rail and road and remains a popular destination for visitors seeking palaces, gardens, and natural scenery within a short trip from the capital. The municipality comprises several civil parishes and encompasses protected natural areas alongside its cultural landmarks.