Sintra and Queluz’s historic gardens welcome dogs again after more than a century

This year, Parques de Sintra is celebrating World Animal Day, on 4 October, with good news for everyone who enjoys walking with their four-legged companions. From this date, and after more than a century, these pets will once again become part of the landscape of the gardens of the National Palaces of Sintra and Queluz.

These historic gardens thus join the Moorish Castle and the Park of Monserrate, where dogs are welcome since 2022 and 2024 respectively.

As well as reviving a tradition from the past, the initiative, which also includes the Convent of the Capuchos, aims to offer a more inclusive experience and a closer connection with nature. Visitors can enjoy these spaces in the company of their pets, while respecting the rules governing their use and the conservation of the heritage sites.

Companion dogs in the Royal Family’s daily life at Sintra’s palaces

In Sintra, companion dogs were part of the Portuguese Royal Family’s everyday life, sharing their palaces, gardens and leisure time. The family’s fondness for animals and deep affection for them were widely known.

This close bond was immortalised in images from the period, such as a photograph of Queen Amélia at the Palace of Pena with three of her dogs: a Great Dane, a Labrador and an Irish Terrier.

The bond between King Ferdinand II and dogs was particularly strong. The Artist King, known for his interest in the arts and nature, depicted dozens of dogs in a range of media, including watercolours, charcoal drawings and ceramics. These depictions are associated with various places in his life, notably the National Palace of Sintra and the Park of Pena.

At the National Palace of Queluz, the Botanical Garden retains four sculptures of pointing dogs, tangible reminders of their presence and importance to the Royal Family.

Animal welfare and visitor rules

To ensure animal welfare, the sites have been equipped with the necessary facilities, including drinking stations for dogs, areas where owners can leave them safely while visiting places where animals are not permitted, and dog waste bag dispensers.

Dogs will be admitted subject to specific rules designed to ensure the safety of both visitors and animals, preserve the gardens and monuments, protect wildlife and plants, and enable everyone to enjoy the spaces together.