Monserrate Palace
Palácio de Monserrate
An English Romantic-style palace on the western slope of Sintra Mountain, with openwork Indo-Moorish arcades and a world-class botanical garden, and far fewer visitors.
Monserrate Palace was built in the mid-19th century by British merchant Francis Cook, blending Gothic, Indian and Moorish elements. Inside, the openwork stone arcades and domes are as delicate as lace. The large garden outside follows the slope of the hill, with a Mexican Garden, a Japanese Garden, a fern valley and a rose garden. It holds plants gathered from around the world, making it one of Portugal's most important Romantic gardens. Admission is about €12, and there are noticeably fewer visitors than at Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira. Getting there: it is about 4 km west of Sintra town. Take bus 435, or cycle or take a taxi.
Opening hours
About 09:30–18:30
Nearby sights
- Convent of the Capuchos
- Chalet of the Countess of Edla
- Seteais Palace
- Quinta da Regaleira
- Biester Palace
- Pena Palace, Sintra
- Sintra National Palace
- Sintra Historic Centre