A grand residence with enchanting gardens and hidden tunnels.
The Quinta da Regaleira is a decorative 20th century residence that is situated in the town of Sintra. The grand house is split over five floors and has a gothic façade decorated with gothic turrets, carved gargoyles and other ornate features. However, the real attraction is the enchanting gardens at the rear of the house.
The gardens of the Quinta da Regaleira cover four hectares and were styled to represent ancient secret orders. These designs were inspired by the owner’s mystic ideologies. There are references to the Masons and dark alchemy, all hidden within the grounds. The well is the strangest feature, symbolising the initiation ceremony for the Knights Templar. In the well there is a concealed passage wherein after descending 27 meters, it connects to a series of tunnels that run the length of the gardens. The mansion was officially opened to the public in 1998 and classified as World Heritage by UNESCO.
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