The picturesque city of Sintra is located on the Atlantic Ocean just a few kilometers from the Portuguese capital. Even in the early Middle Ages, the city enjoyed the favor of the Portuguese monarchs, who built many delightful summer residences here. One of the most famous royal residences was considered the National Palace of Sintra. The history of this city attraction dates back to the period of Arab rule in the territory of modern Portugal. At that time, this architectural monument served as the residence of the Moorish rulers, hence the features of the Moorish style. When a new era in Portuguese history began, the first king, Afonso I, made the eastern palace his residence and added new Gothic elements in the palace decoration. Unfortunately, there is nothing left in the palace neither from the caliphate nor from the first Portuguese kings. The oldest structure that has survived to this day is the simple palace chapel, dating from the 13th century. Most of the buildings were erected during the reign of John I (Joao). Thanks to the generosity of King John I, the main building of the palace acquired magnificent facades, windows, and entrance arches in the Moorish style, and the spacious palace halls were luxuriously decorated. One of the most noteworthy halls is the solemn Coat of Arms Room, the walls of which are decorated with the coats of arms of kings and infantes, as well as all the aristocratic families of Portugal. The delightful Swan Room in the Manueline style is adorned with a fine ceiling painting depicting swans (the symbol of the dynasty of Philip the Good). It is noteworthy that the number of birds corresponds to the age of Isabella of Portugal, the duke's bride. Another room decorated with birds also has a funny story. However, this time the magpies symbolize the court ladies of the Queen and the wife of John I, Philippa of Lancaster. One hundred and thirty-six "magpies" repeatedly pestered the queen with gossip about her husband's infidelity. Palace intrigues ended thanks to a clear hint: images of irritating birds decorated the royal chambers. Luckily, the beautiful and elegant works of talented medieval masters are still well-preserved.