Regaleira estate created by wealthy Brazilian returnee. Antonio Monteiro (Monto) made a fortune in Brazil and returned to Portugal, He purchased property on Sintra mountain and sought membership in Templars, Memovinians, and Masons He was rejected as a 'new money' social climber
António Augusto de Carvalho Monteiro made a fortune in Brazil and returned to Portugal, buying the Roman Ruins of Quinta da Abicada estate in Sintra. A Freemason with interests in esoteric symbolism, he transformed the property with towers, caves, tunnels, fountains, statues, and gardens. He worked with Italian architect Luigi Manini to create the estate's elaborate architecture and features.
Key Facts
- Antonio Monteiro (Monto) made a fortune in Brazil and returned to Portugal,
- He purchased property on Sintra mountain and sought membership in Templars, Memovinians, and Masons
- He was rejected as a 'new money' social climber
- He transformed his land creating fountains, statues, and elaborate architecture
- He hired architects from Venice who built cathedrals
- The property includes ornamental towers, a chapel, and extensive gardens
Related site: Roman Ruins of Quinta da Abicada — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: The Shaman and the Philosopher - Ep. 18 by Institute for Natural Philosophy