Page 106 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Lisbon

104  THE LISBON C O AST

Palácio Nacional de Sintra

At the heart of the old town of Sintra (Sintra Vila), a pair
of strange conical chimneys rise high above the Royal
Palace. The main part of the palace, including the central
block with its plain Gothic façade and the large kitchens
beneath the chimneys, was built by João I in the late
14th century, on a site once occupied by the Moorish . Sala das Pegas
rulers. The Paço Real, as it is also known, became the It is said that King João I had the ceiling
favourite summer retreat for the court, and continued panels painted as a rebuke to the court
as a residence for Portuguese royalty until 1910. women for indulging in idle gossip like
Additions to the building by the wealthy Manuel I, in chattering magpies (pegas).
the early 16th century, echo the Moorish style. Gradual
rebuilding of the palace has resulted in a fascinating
amalgamation of various different styles.

. Sala dos Brasões
The domed ceiling of this majestic room is
decorated with stags holding the coats of
arms (brasões) of 72 noble Portuguese families.
The lower walls are lined with 18th-century
Delft-like tiled panels.

1495–1521 Reign of 1683 Afonso VI 1755 Parts of
10th century Palace 1281 King Dinis orders Manuel I; major dies after being palace damaged
becomes residence restoration of the restoration and imprisoned here in great
of Moorish governor Palácio de Oliva (as it Manueline for nine years by earthquake
was then known)
additions brother Pedro II (see pp24–5)
800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800
1147 Christian reconquest; 1385 João I orders 1880s Maria Pia
Afonso Henriques complete (grandmother of
takes over palace rebuilding of Manuel II) is last
central buildings royal resident
8th century First palace and kitchens
established by Moors Siren, Sala das Sereias (c.1660) 1910 Palace becomes a
national monument

104-105_EW_Lisbon.indd 104 17/10/16 11:34 am
Eyewitness Travel LAYERS PRINTED:
Starsight template “UK” LAYER
(Source v2.7)
Date 24th April 2013
Size 125mm x 217mm