National Palace of Sintra

    The best preserved medieval royal residence in Portugal is the National Palace of Sintra, also known as the Town Palace. Its history began during the Moorish era of the 8th century when Sintra had two castles/palaces; one set on top of a hill overlooking the city and is known today as "The Castle of the Moors"; the other was downhill and served as the residence of the Taifa of Lisbon (an independent Muslim-ruled municipality). The first historical reference of this second building was written during the 10th century. By the 12th century, the village of Sintra had been conquered by King Afonso Henriquez and he turned the castle/palace into his own residence. The earliest surviving part of today's structure is the Royal Chapel, built during the 14th century, with most of the remaining parts dating from circa 1415. As with most of the city, the National Palace complex suffered severe damage during the 1755 earthquake, but was quickly rebuilt in "...the old fashion." With the creation of the Portuguese Republic in 1910, the castle/palace was designated a National Monument. Perhaps the most interesting architectural features of this structure are its two cone-shaped chimneys over the kitchen (each approximately 108 feet tall). They are unique in all of Europe.

The National Palace of Sintra, also known as the Town Palace has existed for 1300 years...

...and faces the historic town center.

Built by Manuel I and thus known as the Manueline Hall, this served as the main hall of the royal residence.

While its primary function was as a library for the residence, this room also served as a show-place for many pieces of art and sculpture collected over the years. One of the major features of the room is a magnificent carved wooden door...

...which originally had the decorated side facing towards the inside of the library.

Only the monarch had access to the Oratory and dressing room; perhaps the most personal part of the private apartment.

Originally built in the early part of the 15th century by King Joao I, the kitchen was quite spacious...

...and over which were the unique twin 108 foot tall conical-shaped chimneys.

The terraced gardens offered pleasant views of the old town.