Secret Scenes of a Portuguese Manor Estate！A Nine-Story Spiral Staircase That Looks Like a Real-Life Hell?!

Text by: Xiao Lü Hai (Little Travel Kid)

The eerie environment, covered in moss and resembling a movie set, is actually the famous Quinta da Regaleira estate in Portugal. This over-a-century-old estate has long been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The estate features palaces that blend Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance architectural styles, but the most eye-catching attraction is a 27-meter-deep dry well, beside which lies a nine-story spiral staircase. This staircase symbolizes the nine circles of Heaven, Hell, and Purgatory as described by the Italian poet Dante.

By simply following the spiral staircase, you can ascend from the bottom of the well to the top, where—surprisingly—you’ll find yourself in a garden. The area is lush with greenery, featuring small bridges, flowing water, lakes, caves, wells, and fountains. All visitors are amazed by the architectural design, which feels like an incredible maze. Whether viewed from the top or the bottom of the well, every angle seems like a photo opportunity, making it a new hotspot for photography enthusiasts.

The palace itself has five levels, and many visitors who explore the various floors—including the living room, dining room, balcony, and kitchen—feel as though they’ve embarked on an underground adventure.

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:00–17:00
Address: R. Barbosa do Bocage 5, 2710-567 Sintra
Phone: +351 21 910 6650
Ticket Price: €6 for adults
How to Get There: Take Bus 435 from Sintra Railway Station　

Want to know what other places in Portugal are worth visiting? Fever Travel has curated a list of 50 must-visitattractions in Portugal, covering them all in one go. Fever Travel is definitely your go-to for travel inspiration and planning.