Parques de Sintra restores centuries-old water system that supplies the National Palace of Sintra

As part of the overall project to restore traditional water systems in the historic parks and gardens under its management, Parques de Sintra is rehabilitating the centuries-old water system that supplies the National Palace of Sintra over an approximate length of three kilometres stretching from the hills through the Park of Pena, the Bichos Hunting Grounds, and the Picnic Park.

The work, which will continue until the end of July, includes cleaning and repairing water springs, channels, and collecting and inspection chambers. Pipes will be replaced and enlarged to eliminate water loss.

Crossing several properties, the extensive and complex water system that supplies the National Palace of Sintra is fed by 22 water sources. It is thought that its origins may date back to the time of the Arab occupation of the region, though the oldest extant documentation refers to repairs carried out in the 15th century. This centuries-old system is still operational and ensures the functioning of the Palace's decorative water features, such as fountains and tanks, the garden irrigation network, and the water supply to the fire-fighting network.

The restoration of the traditional water systems in the various properties managed by Parques de Sintra is essential to increase their resilience in a context of climate change, allowing non-potable water to be conveyed and replenished efficiently at all existing storage points, as well as rehabilitating water features with a decorative function. Over the last three years the company has invested more than half a million euros in interventions aimed at safeguarding, managing and efficiently using the non-potable water produced in the Sintra hills.