Pena Park

The waterwheel in the Pena Palace Park, Sintra is a spectacular neo-moorish architectural design that has a unique and interesting water management system. The most striking feature of this waterwheel was to use underground water mines to raise water from the park to the palace. The same water management system was also used to water the gardens, supply water to tanks, lakes and waterfalls. Till today, the system has been fully functioning and supplies water to the entire palace park. 

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Formally known as the Picadeiro, the famous riding arena situated in Pena Park is embraced by beautiful magnolias. This place has now become a famous spot for a casual stroll amidst nature. As the name suggests, the riding arena was earlier used as a space where young princes learned horse riding . Additionally, the arena holds historical significance as this is exactly where tennis was played for the first time in Portugal. In 1843, this part of the park was transformed by King Ferdinand II into an ornamental farm, providing pleasant country walks. 

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Amidst the canopy of trees, the magnificent Temple of Columns stands out, capturing attention with its striking yellow dome held aloft by twelve elegant columns. Adjacent to the temple, the imposing statue of the Warrior, skillfully sculpted by Ernesto Rusconi in 1848, assumes its role as the guardian of Pena's realm. This statue portrays D. Fernando II, the prince who chose Portugal as his abode, and its shield proudly displays a caravel, symbolizing his safe and auspicious arrival. Close by, the quaint octagonal table known as Mesa da Rainha pays homage to Queen D. Amélia's affection for this cherished spot.

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Perched at an impressive altitude of 528 meters, Cruz Alta in Parque and Palacio da Pena offers breathtaking vistas of Lisbon, Cascais, the Atlantic Ocean and the picturesque Saloia region. Originally home to a cross commissioned by D. João III in around 1522, which was later destroyed by a storm, King Fernando II replaced it with a new cross. Unfortunately, this cross too met its demise due to lightning in 1997. However, in 2008, a new replica crafted from a single block of limestone, weighing approximately 1,700 kilos and was painstakingly created and transported to its location, showcasing intertwined trunks and intricate hollowed-out sections.

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Within Parque da Pena, numerous secluded spots await discovery, including Gruta do Monge, a historic retreat for the monks of Pena Monastery, providing a serene space for reflection, meditation and communion with nature. Another remarkable vantage point is Alto de Santa Catarina, offering panoramic views of the palace. Nestled here is the Queen's Throne, a seat carved into the rock, adorned with tiles and coated in tar. This cherished location earned its name as it was favored by Queen D. Amélia, adding to its allure.

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Pena's Jardim das Camélias stands out as a remarkable botanical treasure. These captivating species, hailing from China and Japan, were brought here by King Fernando II during the 1840s. Blooming during the winter, they have become synonymous with the enchanting beauty of Sintra. The diverse colors and shapes of these camellias enliven the gardens. French gardener Bonnard meticulously planted it, featuring not only popular 19th-century international cultivars but also noteworthy Portuguese cultivars, some associated with members of the Portuguese Royal Family at that time.

Suggested Read: Inside Pena Palace

Within this section of the Park, an extraordinary tree, the Giant Tuia, captures attention with its remarkable presence in the landscape. Standing tall like a sentinel, it adds grandeur to the surroundings. Nearby, lies the captivating Feteira da Rainha, a collection that showcases lush tree ferns from Australia and New Zealand. Planted in a valley blessed with favorable climate and adorned with towering deciduous oaks, their canopies intertwine at the apex, evoking a cathedral-like structure reminiscent of a Gothic nave. This combination creates a truly exotic and enchanting ambiance within the park. 

Must Checkout: Lisbon to Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra, & Pena Palace Trip

Passing through the grand entrance gate, a captivating journey unfolds along the path that meanders alongside five interconnected lakes, embellished with gentle cascades, within a serene leafy valley. Among the lakes, two pateras serve as shelter structures for aquatic birds. Following the valley's trail, you arrive at the Fonte dos Passarinhos, a small pavilion adorned with neo-Moorish frescoes. Its hexagonal layout, vaulted dome and tile embellishments enclose a crystalline fountain whose melodic sounds are enhanced by the building's excellent acoustics. Additionally, the delicate bird statues adorn the inner parapet, lending the structure its name.

Also Read: Pena Palace Facts

In Pena Park, Terraco Cocheiras, an alpine-style building seamlessly blending into the natural surroundings, was constructed by King Fernando II and his second wife, the Countess of Edla, Elise Hensler, from 1864 to 1869. This remarkable structure is located within the Parks of Sintra Park and Palace of Pena. The surrounding garden boasts a diverse array of botanical collections, featuring camellias, rhododendrons, azaleas, ferns and various other plant species, creating a stunning display of natural beauty.

Must Read: Pena Palace History