Palacio da Pena

One of the region's most distinguished historical landmarks and a fixture on the Sintra sightseeing circuit, the Pena palace crowns the highest peak of the Serra de Sintra hills. Dating from the 19th century, the building features several different architectural styles, with colourful domes and turrets surrounded by a castellated wall. Commissioned by Queen Maria II for her husband Ferdinand, the palace is full of rare and priceless antiques and curios from all over the world displayed in beautifully styled rooms of fantastic opulence and decoration. One of the most impressive is the Ballroom, which is furnished with stunning Oriental porcelain and German stained-glass windows. The Arab Room is also rich in its splendor. The dramatic views from the ramparts embrace the entire Lisbon coast, as far as Ericeira.