Seven Wonders of Portugal

The Convent of the Order of Christ, also called locally Convento de Cristo or Convent of Christ of Tomar, was constructed as a Templar stronghold during the 12^th century.  It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the country’s most significant historical and artistic monuments.

The Pena National Palace is located in Sao Pedro de Penaferrim. It is a Romanticist palace that sits atop a hill overlooking the town. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Monument of the Discoveries, also known as Padrao dos Descrobrimentos, is located in Santa Maria de Belem on the bank of the Tagus River. It was constructed to honor the Age of Discovery or Age of Exploration that occurred during the 15th and 16th centuries.

The Algarve Benagil Sea Caves are located on the coast of Portugal. Visitors love the tranquil beach, but the mountain erosion and accompanying sea caves are what drive the landmark attraction.

The Plaza of Commerce, locally called Praca do Comercio or Terreiro do paco, is found in Lisbon just off the Tagus River. After being destroyed in 1755 by an earthquake, it was rebuilt with construction completed in 1777.

The 25 de Abril Bridge is a suspension bridge that reminds people of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. It extends 7,470 feet (2,277 m) across the Tagus River. It is the 23rd longest suspension bridge in the world.

The Bom Jesus do Monte Monastery is a Portuguese sanctuary in Tenoes. The name actually means “Good Jesus of the Mount.” It features a Baroque stairway that ascends 381 feet (116 m).

The Quinta da Regaleira is a wealthy estate in Sintra. It is also known as the Palace of the Millionaire. It has been declared a World Heritage Site. The property also has a chapel, park, lakes, and grottoes.

The Castle of the Moors, locally known as Castelo dos Mouros, is a medieval castle found in Santa Maria e Sao Miguel. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. It measures 511 feet (155.8 m) by 502 feet (152.9 m).

The Hieronymites Monastery, also known as Jeronimos Monastery, is found in Lisbon. It represents one of the most significant examples of the Portuguese Late Gothic Manueline architecture. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Sameiro Sanctuary, more fully known as Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro, is both a sanctuary and Marian shrine. It is the second largest Marian devotional shrine.

The Mafra National Palace is a monumental Baroque and Italianized Neoclassical palace. It also served as a Franciscan monastery. At 430,556 square feet (40,000 sq m), it is one of the largest palaces in the world.

Built as a summer retreat for Dom Pedro of Braganza, the Queluz National Palace is one of the last great Rococo style buildings constructed in Europe.  One wing serves as a guesthouse for foreign heads of state.  It features a music room, ballroom and Hall of Ambassadors.