To find places as enigmatic as Easter Island in Chile, the Blood Falls in Antarctica or the Island of the Dolls in Mexico, it is not necessary to cross the ocean, but much closer than we think there are places that turn out to be more disturbing. Specifically, 25 kilometers from Lisbon, it is located Sintraone of the most beautiful cities to visit if you are in the area. However, what not everyone knows is that there is one of those places that makes your hair stand on end.
We are talking about Initiatory Well which is inside the palace of the Quinta da Regaleira, This place has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. Also known as the ‘inverted tower’, what becomes clear as soon as you arrive is that the atmosphere is loaded with mysticism and mystery.
Rituals, mysteries and secrets
It is believed that this place was used for Masonic rituals that represented the transition between death and reincarnation. Right at the end, we find a compass rose reflected and it is said that the Freemasons had to ascend until they reached the entrance that is guarded by two dragons that were coiled in a fountain above the same name.
The gallery has a spiral staircase that has nine landings separated by fifteen steps, both numbers carefully chosen. It is said that the latter was typical of Masonic numerology and that the nine floors referred to the circles of hell represented in Dante’s Divine Comedy.
Furthermore, the deep spiral that forms inside the well could also be interpreted as a journey into the soulthat is, as a process of spiritual enlightenment. Even when walking through its tunnels it is possible to find some symbols related to alchemy and secret societies, something that has increased speculation about this place.
Schedules and prices
With the exception of a couple of days, January 1 and December 24 and 25, the Quinta da Regaleira open every day from 10:00 in the morning to 18:30 in the afternoon in winter and until 19:30 in summer.
Best of all, the price of admission is quite affordable, since it costs 10 eurosalthough by providing the Lisboa Card or the Youth Card you get a 20% discount. For children and people over 80, admission is free. While for young people from 6 to 17 years old and those over 65 the price is only 5 euros.
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