Most Fortified Buildings in The World
By • Last UpdatedPena Palace, Portugal
Year of Appearance: 1840. The Pena Palace, a site of national significance in Portugal, is situated near the town of Sintra, perched atop a rocky cliff. Although it resembles a classic medieval castle, its actual age is just over 150 years. The construction of this magnificent fortress was commissioned by King Ferdinand II, who used it as a summer residence.
Originally, a small, old monastery stood on the rocky site chosen for the castle, but by the time construction began, it had fallen into disrepair, allowing for the erection of a grand building of impressive proportions. The last owner of the castle was Queen Amélia, who was forced to flee Portugal in 1910. Many of the palace’s rooms and halls have been preserved as they were during her reign.
After the revolution, the palace was converted into a museum, showcasing an intriguing collection of artwork, antique furniture, and jewelry. Strolling through the expansive grounds is equally rewarding, where visitors can admire intricately carved Moorish arches, antique sculptures, and beautifully landscaped decorations. The palace is surrounded by a vast forest covering over 200 hectares, where various exotic plants were cultivated by past owners, making it a delightful excursion for nature lovers.