What to See Inside Sintra National Palace

The 27 swans painted across its late-14th-century wooden ceiling, traditionally associated with the marriage of King João I to Queen Philippa of Lancaster in 1387.

The ceiling is painted with magpies each holding a banner reading Por Bem (for the best), tied to a legend about King João I and Queen Philippa of Lancaster after a courtly kiss incident.

Each conical chimney rises 33 metres above the medieval kitchen and dominates the palace's silhouette in the Sintra village skyline.

71 shields of Portuguese noble families surround the central royal arms, in an octagonal domed plan built under King Manuel I.

Most visitors spend 60 to 90 minutes inside, which is enough to enjoy the main rooms at a relaxed pace.

Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most rooms without flash or tripods. Specific rules may apply during temporary exhibitions.

Many of the Hispano-Moorish tile galleries preserve original medieval and early-modern panels, with later additions in the Coats of Arms Room and elsewhere from the 18th century.

Moorish, medieval Portuguese, Manueline-mudéjar, and later Baroque additions — a layered conversation spanning six centuries.

Yes, audio guides are available from the operator on site, covering the main rooms in multiple languages.

The medieval kitchen looking up through the twin chimneys is the most theatrical photograph; the Swan and Magpie Rooms are the most rewarding ceiling shots.