TAVEL DIARY: SINTRA 1
The Quinta da Regaleira is located near the historic centre of Sintra, Portugal. It is protected within the UNESCO World Heritage site and is a mix of Gothic, Egyptian, Moorish and Renaissance architecture. It is an enchanting estate about half an hour from Lisbon. It was built by an eccentric Free Mason and it houses the mysterious Initiation Well.
For a day-trip, we took an Uber from our Airbnb to the Quinta and this was where we collected our eticket.
We followed the signs leading to the Initiation Well.
The line seemed daunting at first. Some grew impatient and left, but we decided to wait. Surprisingly, the line moved swiftly. Initially hesitant about the climb, I suggested waiting for my family, but they encouraged me to give it a try.
Accompanying my family, I descended into the Initiation Well. The staircase spiraled down deep within the earth, resembling inverted towers, and its beauty captivated us. However, I had to tread carefully as some sections were occasionally wet.
We ended up in a cave and walked out to a beautiful waterfall. (Great that we didn’t have to go back up to exit).
And before I knew it my kids were already up in the tower
They moved too quickly for us, so we decided to let them explore on their own and agreed to meet up at the palace’s exit.
Jack and I decided to explore on our own, and we stumbled upon a small chapel within the Quinta grounds. The interior of the chapel is impressively decorated with frescoes, stained glass windows, and stuccoes.
Please click on the photo to see the details of the image enlarged
We saw these sculptures around the walk ways.
We proceeded to the palace to have enough time to appreciate the main reason why we went there – the Quinta da Regaleira Castle
Its interior was awe-inspiring.
Even the door knocker and knob details were magnificent.
I also found the explanation of the architecture intriguing.
And one last look from different perspectives.
Photos from 20 October 2023
Such an enchanting and unique architecture. It was really an amazing choice for a day trip.
Extraordinary. This is a bit of a fairy tale building, isn’t it?
Definitely is. Such big acreage with many things to look at and learn about.
Would you believe, I’ve never actually been there, Teresa? I believe it was closed for quite some time . A must do on my next visit. Thank you for taking me there, and your wonderful photos.
What? I was thinking that you will say “Thank you for taking me back there.” Naughty girl. You should go next time haha
🤣🩷
So lovely.🥰
Oh yes it is, Arlene. Something that will forever be in my mind.
Thanks for stopping by, Arlene. Yes, it is truly an amazing place.
I loved the Quinta da Regaleira, a really magical atmosphere! Thank you for taking me back 🙂
I knew that you would’ve seen it. It is magnificent isn’t it!
I have, although we didn’t have time to go inside so now I’ve seen your post I want to go back!
That’s easy for you to do anyway. But I don’t think my photos did justice to the place.
Beautiful architecture. Thanks for sharing your great photos.
Really extravagant. Thanks Rebecca for coming along.
Impressive!!
Really impressive. Thanks for stopping by Christie.
Magnificent! Thanks for the fabulous tour through your photos!
Thanks Amy, glad you stopped by!
Wow, just wow.
Thanks, happy you liked it.