Sintra: A Small City with Rich Tradition

In my opinion, the title of this post really captures the essence of the village of idyllic Sintra. Before arriving in this quaint Portuguese municipality, we were informed by a friend with the same last name that Sintra better be our favorite destination in Portugal. I've already shared my affinity for Lagos, but this beautiful town in the district of Lisbon was my favorite for different reasons. It boasts many historic landmarks as well as a colorful, close-knit community and culture. It is also where all of my other traveling companions fell in love with Portuguese chourico [chorizo].

My words may not do Sintra justice, but the following images might..


*Please ignore our "outfits". All of our baggage was lost until later that night. The street cafe in the background was where our [minus me] meaty obsession mentioned above was birthed.


*Countryside view from the grounds of Sintra's National Palace, or the Palacio Nacional de Sintra.


*View from the main courtyard outside of the Palacio Nacional de Sintra.


*Pena Palace, or the Palacio de Pena, which has been described as a Disney-esque castle because of its color scheme.


*View of the intricate architecture inside the grounds of the Palacio de Pena.