Monserrate Palace

Monserrate Palace is a castle in Sintra featuring three towers and a blend of Moorish and English garden architecture. The building displays geometric patterns and stone carvings throughout, surrounded by botanical gardens on the grounds.

The site began in 1093 as a chapel honoring the Virgin Mary and was later transformed by Francis Cook into a palace. His 19th-century renovation project created the romantic structure visitors see today.

The palace blends Moorish Revival styles with Gothic details, reflecting the romantic tastes of its 19th-century owner. You can see this mixture in the decorated rooms, carved doorways, and garden passages throughout.

The grounds are best explored during daylight hours when the architecture and gardens are most visible. The terrain is hilly, so wear comfortable shoes and allow time for walking around the property.

The gardens are divided into different geographical zones where plants from multiple continents grow. This collecting concept shows the owner's worldwide passion for rare botany and creates varied landscapes across the property.

Location: Sintra (Santa Maria e São Miguel, São Martinho e São Pedro de Penaferrim)

Inception: 1858

Architects: James Thomas Knowles

Architectural style: eclectic architecture

Floors above the ground: 1

Accessibility: Wheelchair limited access

Part of: Cultural Landscape of Sintra

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00-18:00

Website: http://parquesdesintra.pt

GPS coordinates: 38.79420,-9.42064

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:01