Parques de Sintra restores façades of the Chalet of the Countess of Edla

Conservation and restoration work is under way at the Chalet of the Countess of Edla, focusing on the decorative coverings of the façades. The intervention, which aims to restore authenticity to the building, includes the distinctive polychrome boarded render, which imitates wood, as well as the remaining decorative elements, particularly those made of cork.

Reopened to the public in 2011, following a meticulous reconstruction project that returned this space of great cultural, historical and artistic value to public enjoyment, the Chalet of the Countess of Edla is located in the western area of the Park of Pena. João Sousa Rego, Chair of the Board of Directors of Parques de Sintra, emphasises that this is an area ‘where the particular and harsh microclimate of the Sintra Hills exerts its wearing effect.’ It is therefore necessary to carry out this intervention ‘to mitigate the effects of degradation agents, stabilise subsequent alteration phenomena and replace decorative cork elements that cannot be recovered,’ he explains.

‘While fully respecting the building’s architectural language and style, we will adapt it to make it more resilient in a context marked by the extreme phenomena caused by climate change,’ adds João Sousa Rego. This restoration will use more resistant materials and reinforced fixing systems.

In line with the values of ecology and sustainability that guide Parques de Sintra’s work and taking into account the natural surroundings of the Chalet of the Countess of Edla, materials and intervention methodologies have been carefully selected to safeguard the fauna and flora of the Park of Pena. In the present intervention, biocidal products based on essential oils will be applied in order to protect the ecosystem

The contract, budgeted for around 230,000 euros, is expected to be completed within six months.

Built in the second half of the 19th century at the initiative of King Ferdinand II and his second wife, Elise Hensler, Countess of Edla, this Alpine-style chalet served as the couple’s retreat in one of the most charming corners of the Park of Pena. The building was designed by the Countess of Edla herself, reflecting her remarkable Romantic sensibility. The scenic character of the site, enhanced by the exotic garden surrounding it, reveals the couple’s passion for the arts and botany.