The most haunted places in Sintra: the mystical and haunted mountain of Portugal
Sintra has always been a place wrapped in magic and mystery. Known since ancient times as the Mountain of the Moon, this village was considered sacred by Arabs, Templars, and alchemists.
Its colorful palaces, mist-covered forests, and enigmatic caves are the stage for haunted legends and ghost stories passed down through generations.
Below, discover the 6 most haunted places in Sintra, where beauty and the supernatural walk hand in hand.
1. Biester Palace: The mysterious “Witch House”
Biester Palace, also known as the Witch House, is one of the most mysterious places in Sintra. With neo-Gothic architecture, medieval frescoes, and occult symbols, this site is linked to secret societies and enigmatic rituals.
Its dark atmosphere and esoteric symbolism inspired the film The Ninth Gate, starring Johnny Depp. According to legend, one of the three copies of the book written by the devil may be hidden here. Want to know more about this story? Click here.
Location: Estrada da Pena, Sintra
Legend: The devil’s book and secret societies
Distance from Casa do Valle: 1.2 kilometers
2. Valenças Palace: The ghost of Palmira
In the heart of the village, Valenças Palace is famous for the legend of Palmira, a maid who fell in love with the count and, after being rejected, took her own life.
Since then, it’s believed that Palmira’s ghost roams the palace, sighing and making the floorboards creak.
Former employees of the old Municipal Library have reported strange noises and unexplained voices, reinforcing the building’s haunted reputation.
Location: Rua Visconde de Monserrate, 1, Sintra
Legend: The spirit of the maid Palmira
Distance from Casa do Valle: 700 meters
3. Quinta da Penha Verde: The unexplained rain of stones
Quinta da Penha Verde became famous for a documented paranormal phenomenon on October 17, 1982: for six hours, stones mysteriously fell out of nowhere onto the property.
The event was witnessed by firefighters, GNR officers, and locals; to this day, no convincing explanation has been found.
Location: Estrada da Nova Rainha, Sintra
Legend: The rain of stones of Penha Verde
Distance from Casa do Valle: 4.5 kilometers
4. Quinta da Regaleira: The Initiatic Well and the occult
Quinta da Regaleira is one of Sintra’s most visited and mystical sites. Its gardens hide Templar and Masonic symbols, caves, and underground tunnels.
The Initiatic Well represents the descent into the unconscious and the search for spiritual rebirth. Many visitors report temperature changes, echoes, and sensations of a presence.
Location: Rua Barbosa du Bocage, Sintra
Legend: The mystery of the Initiatic Well
Distance from Casa do Valle: 1.2 kilometers
5. National Palace of Sintra: The knight of the Coats of Arms Hall
In the village center, the National Palace of Sintra is known for its iconic chimneys and the Coats of Arms Hall, where, according to legend, the ghost of a knight who died in a duel appears.
It is said that on quiet nights, one can hear the sound of armor dragging through the corridors.
Location: Largo Rainha D. Amélia, Sintra
Legend: The knight wandering in search of redemption
Distance from Casa do Valle: 500 meters
6. Haunted road of Vale dos Anjos: The hitchhiking ghost
Between Colares and Vale dos Anjos lies a stretch of road locals call the “haunted road.”
Several drivers claim to have seen a woman asking for a ride, who then mysteriously disappears upon reaching her destination.
The phenomenon is known as “the hitchhiking ghost” and is one of the creepiest stories in Sintra.
Location: Estrada do Vale dos Anjos, Colares
Legend: The woman who vanishes after the ride
Distance from Casa do Valle: 1.2 kilometers
The most haunted places in Sintra: between the real and the supernatural
Known as the Mountain of the Moon, Sintra continues to inspire mysticism and curiosity.
Among unexplained phenomena, templars, and alchemists, the village remains one of Portugal’s most haunted and enigmatic destinations.
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, one thing is certain: Sintra has a unique energy that leaves no one indifferent.
If you are curious to uncover more of Sintra’s secrets, we invite you to take part in experiences where you become the protagonist of the story, uncovering the town’s hidden mysteries step by step.
Escape Warriors: Step into an interactive escape room where you and your team will be “locked” inside a themed setting filled with clues, puzzles, and riddles. Work together to solve the enigmas and find your way out before time runs out.
Time Required: 60 minutes
Location: R. Mário Costa Ferreira Lima 7ª, Sintra
Distance From Casa do Valle: 2 kilometers
Mystery City: Sintra Outdoor Escape Game
Embark on an outdoor adventure through Sintra’s enchanting streets. This scavenger hunt, inspired by a true story, leads you to famous landmarks and hidden corners, revealing tales of love, power, and royal intrigue that shaped the town’s legend. Official website:
Time Required: Walking, 2-3 hours in the historic center
Location: R. Dr. Alfredo da Costa 15, Sintra
Distance From Casa do Valle: 1,3 Kilometers
Dare to explore Sintra’s most haunted places?
Stay at Casa do Valle and uncover the mysteries of Sintra.
