Quinta da Regaleira Initiation Well, Ceremonial water well at Quinta da Regaleira estate, Sintra, Portugal
The Initiation Well is a deep underground structure that extends through nine levels connected by a spiral staircase. The walls are covered with moss and ivy, and the entire construction was carved directly into the bedrock.
The well was built between 1904 and 1910 as part of the Quinta da Regaleira estate, designed by Italian architect Luigi Manini according to the vision of owner Antonio Carvalho Monteiro. The structure reflected a broader movement of translating esoteric and occult interests into architectural form.
The well served as a setting for esoteric rituals, and its nine tiers hold symbolic meaning that visitors can see reflected in the stonework and design. People who walked these stairs would have experienced a journey through carefully planned layers, each contributing to the intended spiritual narrative.
Access is through an entrance near the main palace, and a paved path leads to the spiral staircase. Sturdy shoes are recommended since the steps are narrow and the walls can be slippery from moisture and growth.
At the bottom lies a Templar cross formed from stone tiles, marking the point where ceremonies took place in complete darkness. This symbol was intentionally hidden below ground and often overlooked by visitors descending the stairs.
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