Kings, queens, palaces, and castles all in a beautiful little town made us think we had fallen asleep and woken up in a story book.  A little more than a hour north on a train, it is common for people to take a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon to visit the two major sites.  After hearing about the cute bed and breakfast hotels there, Beau and I decide to stay a night and relax in the chill town at the Miradouro.  We were very glad we had the great night of rest under our belt after we started our expedition.  One thing you will note about Sintra, if you visit, is all the walking up and down hills. The two major sites to visit are the Palacio de Pena and the Castelo dos Mouros.  The Palacio de Pena (the Palace of Pena) was a breath-taking sight.  The use of vivid color and textures cover the exterior and interior of the Palace.  The vivid color illuminates through the bright red and yellow facade, interior paints, the graphic and organic tiles used inside and out, and landscape.  Every corner you turn in the Palace you will also find a new detailed carving or pattern in the stone that such depth to each plane.  We could have spent hours exploring and photographing this beautiful piece of art.

Castelo dos Mouros was a fun and exciting place to experience.  The view are amazing and it make you understand the purpose of the historic structure.  I can't imagine what it would have been like to be in the Castle during its prime.  All in all it is fun day back in time.