This image depicts the vertical descent into the Initiation Well (Poço Iniciático) at Quinta da Regaleira, located in Sintra, Portugal (specifically within Santa Maria e São Miguel, São Martinho e São Pedro de Penaferrim)

This image depicts the vertical descent into the Initiation Well (Poço Iniciático) at Quinta da Regaleira, located in Sintra, Portugal (specifically within Santa Maria e São Miguel, São Martinho e São Pedro de Penaferrim). The perspective is an overhead view looking directly down into the approximately 27-meter deep dry well, which is constructed from irregular, grey, rough-hewn stone blocks, heavily textured and showing patches of green moss adhering to surfaces, particularly on the upper levels and within arched recesses. A continuous stone spiral staircase with stone railings and decorative balusters winds clockwise down the entire interior of the conical well structure. At various points along its descent, multiple semicircular arched openings lead into dark tunnels or chambers within the surrounding rock and earth. The ground visible within these openings consists of loose soil and scattered dry leaves. At the uppermost visible section, three individuals are present. One person, largely obscured on the left, wears dark clothing. To their right, a person with dark hair, wearing a grey beanie and a dark green jacket, holds a dark electronic device (likely a smartphone or camera) with both hands, looking downwards. A yellow lanyard is visible around their neck. Further right, another person with light hair, wearing a light pink beanie and a light-colored jacket, similarly holds a dark electronic device with both hands, also focused downwards. Midway down the well, on the descending staircase, one individual in dark clothing with a reddish hat or hood is visible leaning forward, appearing to navigate the steps. At the very bottom of the well, a circular paved area is visible, appearing somewhat wet. A faint geometric pattern, possibly a cross or compass rose, is discernible in the center of the base. A solitary figure stands at the bottom of the well, their details indistinct due to distance and lighting. The overall lighting transitions from moderate brightness at the top to deep shadow at the bottom, illuminating the upper sections more clearly.