MONSERRATE PALACE (PALÁCIO DE MONSERRATE)

The rich history of Monserrate traces back to the 12th century, linked to the reconquest of Sintra by Portugal's first King, Afonso Henriques. Legend has it that he commissioned a chapel here in gratitude for victory over the Moors. Later, a chapel inspired by Spain's Sanctuary of Monserrate was built in 1540, but was lost in the 1755 earthquake.

Through the centuries, Monserrate saw various owners, notably the merchant Gerard DeVisme in 1746, who constructed a Neo-Gothic mansion. William Beckford, a prominent figure, rented the property from 1793 to 1799, adding his artistic touch. Subsequent owner, Francis Cook, expanded the estate's eccentricities with architect James Knowles blending various architectural styles.

Recognised for its cultural significance, Monserrate Park and Palace became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, managed by Parques de Sintra since 2000, undergoing significant restoration. Today, its lush gardens and eclectic architecture continue to captivate visitors, preserving its storied legacy.

Step into the ornate interior of Monserrate Palace, where a blend of Indian, Arabesque, and Italian influences creates a captivating ambience. Begin your journey in the Main Hall, a striking octagonal space adorned with a Carrara marble fountain beneath a stucco-clad wood frame dome. Traverse the gallery corridor, featuring arabesque arches and columns, connecting the palace's towers.

Venture to the Music Room along the corridor's Northern arm, passing by the Indian Drawing Room and Billiards Room. Admire its domed ceiling adorned with depictions of muses and graces, renowned for its exceptional acoustics, ideal for cultural events and weddings.

Explore the Southern Corridor to discover the newly restored Library, boasting walnut shelves, high relief doors, and adorned walls with decorative paintings and wallpaper. Continue to the Entrance Hall, with its gothic arches and elegant pink marble columns leading to a terrace and the Triton Fountain, completing your enchanting journey through Monserrate Palace.

In 2013, the Monserrate estate's grounds earned the prestigious European Garden Award, recognised as the "Best Development of a Historic Park or Garden." Renowned as an essential botanical collection, it showcases flora from around the world.

Originally designed by master gardener James Burt from Kew Gardens and further developed by Francis Cook, the estate's wooded hillsides boast an array of exotic foliage, including Chinese weeping cypress, dragon trees, and Himalayan rhododendrons. Explore the Mexican garden, featuring palms, yuccas, and agaves, or discover the bamboo-fringed Japanese garden adorned with camellias and azaleas. These meticulously crafted gardens stand as a testament to romance and remain among Portugal's most stunning landscapes.

THE CHAPEL OF OUR LADY OF MONERRATE

The false ruin, conceptualised by Francis Cook, was crafted from the chapel erected by Gerard de Visme, replacing the original Chapel of Our Lady of Monserrate. Enveloped by lush vegetation, the ruin harmoniously merges with the neighbouring Australian rubber tree. Once housing three Etruscan sarcophagi as garden decorations, the chapel niche now holds historical significance. These artefacts currently reside within the collections of the São Miguel de Odrinhas Archaeological Museum in Sintra.

TRAVELLING TO MONSERRATE PALACE

It's possible to walk from the historical centre of Sintra, a pleasent couple of miles along the forested road of Rua Barbosa do Bocage, past the Quinta Regaleira and the Palácio de Seteais hotel.

Contact Details
2710-405 Sintra, Portugal.
38° 47' 30.7"N | 09° 25' 09.1"W | +351 219 237 300
info@parquesdesintra.pt |  Website