The Palace of Monserrate: From Ruin to Romantic Icon

Larger than life: Art that inspires us through the ages

The park and palace of Monserrate after Sir Francis Cook restored  the property and turned it into his summer residence. The colorful round domes were inspired by the Duomo in Florence, Italy. The European influences contrast with the Moorish arches, columns, and palm trees, making Monserrate an example of eclectic Romantic architecture.  (Park and Palace of Monserrate, PSML, EMIGUS).

Located in the lush and enchanting landscape of Sintra, Portugal, lies the Monserrate Palace, a 19th-century Romantic era gem embellished in Indian, Italian, Moorish, and Neo-Gothic styles. Over the centuries, Monserrate became a retreat for writers and a source of inspiration for travelers.

Even in a neglected state, the palace inspired none other than Romantic poet Lord Byron himself in his poem, “Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage.”