Sintra

Just 30 min away from Lisbon to the west is the little town of Sintra covered with lush greens. Also here jacaranda trees dot the town.

The two main sights were both created by the Moors.

The Palacio Nacional de Sintra with its twin domed chimneys is seen from afar.

Palacio Nacional de Sintra

Inside the palace has features from the Moors as well as from several royal periods.

entrance portal with moorish tiles

In the Sala dos Brasoes, you will find 72 shields of the leading families of 16th century Portugal that crown the ceiling.

Sala dos Brasoes 

The palace also showcases gifts received from other royals in the world - like this Chinese pagoda set in special made vitrine.

Palace chapel

Towering over the palace and the town is the Castello dos Mouros - a castle built by the Moors on the 492 m high hill top. To reach there you can take a bus or cab or you take the scenic lush green walkway. After two kilometers the castle is in front of you.

The castle dates back to the 9th century and its mainly the outer walls that have survived as ruins till today. Most of them are accessible and you can walk around for the best view.

view on pace & town