Cascais, Estoril and Sintra are the three most important places for excursions when you are in Lisbon. Sintra is a small green paradise, surrounded by hills and plains, and hides magnificent palaces, gardens and history, and at the same time turns you into a romantic person. Sintra is a little different in relation to Cascais and Estoril, it could be said that it is much more romantic and has a special emotion. One of the reasons for that is its Pena Palace, which is considered to be the most romantic palace from the Romantic era, and was built in the 19th century. Sintra is also recognizable by the westernmost point of Europe, Cabo da Roca, which is located not far from the center of this town. It is also known for the Moorish fortress, Monserrate palace and numerous other sights that make Sintra a rich cultural and tourist center.
Sintra is actually a city, located in the district of Lisbon at 30km, rich in historical sights, parks, beautiful houses, restaurants, small bakeries, souvenir shops, etc. The fact that the central part of Sintra, or so called Cultural Landscape of Sintra, is a world cultural heritage protected by UNESCO, also speaks of the beauty of Sintra.
The first inhabitants of Sintra settled in prehistory, and the founders of the modern settlement were the Moors in the VIII century. They built a fortress which was taken over by the Christians in 1147.
As is symbolic for Cascais and Estoril, the kings chose Sintra as their place of rest. From the 15th century until the 19th century, with the visit of kings and during their summer vacations, numerous palaces, parks, various buildings began to be built, and Sintra flourished again. This is exactly what made Sintra a tourist place as it is today. Sintra is also considered a place where richer people spend their time.
Hans Christian Anderson described this place briefly and clearly, as "The most beautiful place in Portugal". Sintra has always been and remains the inspiration of great artists.
Numerous cafes and restaurants in Sintra are as much an attraction as the place itself. They all have beautiful ambiences, arranged in the same or similar style. In the center of Sintra you will find a restaurant in the Parisian manner, a cup of coffee in this place turns into a complete pleasure.
Author of the text:
Maja Glavaš, Bachelor with Honours in Communicology. Works in Tourism.
Contact: [email protected]; instagram: travel_europe1
Photo by Paulo Soeiro on Unsplash
