Sintra Rediscovered: Hidden Gems

Sintra’s treasure spots go far beyond those previously mentioned. This time, we’re recommending the Belém Jerónimos Monastery and the Moorish Castle—one exuding solemnity and tranquility filled with religious significance, the other steeped in history’s grandeur and ruggedness. Both are absolutely worth adding to your itinerary!​ Location: The Belém Jerónimos Monastery is located around the town of Sintra, while the Moorish Castle sits on the hillside of Sintra Mountain, overlooking the entire Sintra area from above.​ ⛪ Belém Jerónimos Monastery​ Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, last admission at 5:30 PM, closed every Monday (except holidays).​ Highlights: This monastery is an outstanding example of Portuguese Manueline architecture and is listed as a World Cultural Heritage site. The exterior walls are made of light-colored stone, covered with intricate and exquisite carvings featuring maritime elements, flora, and fauna patterns. Every detail reflects the glory of Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Inside, the monastery is quiet and solemn, with high vaulted ceilings and pristine white walls. Sunlight filters through stained glass windows, casting dappled light and shadow, making you feel as if you are in a sacred sanctuary.​ Photo Spots: The front porch of the monastery is perfect for photos; the elaborate carvings stand out vividly under the sunlight. Standing under the porch and looking back over your shoulder can create vintage yet dignified shots. Don’t miss the interior cloisters either—the arched corridors stretch out, and side shots emphasize strong lines and an artistic atmosphere.​ 🏰 Moorish Castle​ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM, last admission at 5:30 PM. In winter, closing may be half an hour earlier, so it’s recommended to check the schedule before your visit.​ Highlights: The Moorish Castle is one of Sintra’s oldest buildings, originally built in the 8th century by the Moors and later occupied by Christians. The castle sits atop the mountain, constructed from massive stone blocks. Its winding walls resemble a giant dragon coiled around the hills, full of historical weight. From the castle ruins, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Sintra, with the colorful roofs of Pena Palace clearly visible in the distance, offering an incredibly wide vista.​ Photo Spots: The castle’s ruined walls make an excellent photo backdrop. Wearing vintage-style clothing and standing by the stones while gazing into the distance can create photos full of storytelling. Also, the battlements along the walls are great for photos—rest your camera on the battlement with Pena Palace and the forested hills in the background to capture layered, striking landscape shots.​ 📌 Travel Tips:​ Loud noise is prohibited inside the Belém Jerónimos Monastery; please maintain silence and respect the rules of this religious site. The interior lighting is relatively dim, so avoid using flash photography to prevent disturbing others.​ The paths up to the Moorish Castle are steep, with some sections lacking steps and consisting of natural dirt trails. It’s recommended to wear non-slip hiking shoes. The mountain is also windy, similar to Cabo da Roca, so remember to bring a jacket and watch your footing, especially near the edges of the castle walls.