Staircase to heaven

Perhaps the most famous feature is the garden staircase with the famous 'azulejo' (blue tiles,) panels depicting pastoral scenes.
One flight down to the fountain and summer houses and then splits into 2 to descend to another fountain. Many nymphs and cherubs watched over by some gargoyles.
Another flight down, decorated with azulejo panels depicting more nymphs and cherubs, leads to ground level where there is the pièce de résistance, statues of Venus and Diana in the grotto.
From here the path lined with trees and lavender plants leads to the carriage gate and 2 more gazebos safe from prying eyes.Read more