PORTUGAL ~ Pena National Palace - Sintra - UNESCO ~

... Amazing and magical view of a colorful fairytale looking castle built on the highest hills of Sintra (it inspired Walt Disney to create his own fairytale castle) ... with spectacular views all round... it's considered to be one of the most romantic castles in the world... one of the official Seven Wonders of Portugal... the Palace is set within a 200 acres forested park with exotic trees and plants, a fern valley and a lake with swans... Thanks so much dear Josep&Assumpta (and thank your son tooヅ)... I'm glad it arrived safely after its long journey!! (✿ ♥‿♥)

Pena National Place was built by built by  King Ferdinand II around an old monastery dating from the 16C. Construction of the new palace started in 1840 and the king would spend his whole life realizing his dream castle. It was finally completed in 1885, the year he died at the age of 69.

The palace exhibits a blend of Neo-Gothic, Neo-Islamic, Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Manueline architectural styles and was designed by architect Ludwig von Eschwege.

It was purchased by Portuguese State in 1889, and after the Republican Revolution in 1910, the complex was declared as a national monument and was turned into a museum. Towards end of twentieth century the palace was renovated and repainted to restore its original structure and colors.

In 1995, the palace and the rest of the Cultural Landscape of Sintra were classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Stamp:

Traditional Desserts of Portugal
(Issued 12-05-2017)