Mafra Palace

Mafra Palace

As is well known, Mafra in Portugal is a very small city—some people may have never even heard of it. But within this tiny city stands a massive structure, and it is this building that has made the city famous: the renowned Mafra Palace.

Mafra Palace is a historic palace and monastery located in Mafra. It is said that Portugal built this palace to compete with the Royal Monastery of El Escorial on the outskirts of Madrid, but it more closely resembles an attempt to cater to the power of the Vatican. There is also a story behind the construction of this enormous monastery: during the reign of King João V (1707–1750), the king made a vow in 1711 that if the queen bore him an heir, he would build a monastery. After the birth of his eldest daughter, Princess Barbara, the king began constructing the palace. Built in the 18th century, Mafra Palace blends Baroque and Italian-influenced Neoclassical architectural styles, making it one of Portugal’s most luxurious Baroque buildings and now one of Mafra’s most famous tourist attractions.

The Mafra Palace is adorned with several Italian sculptures, as well as six historic pipe organs and two carillons, comprising 92 bells. Most incredibly, there is also a grand library housing around 40,000 rare books.

Mafra National Palace

Must-visit reason: One of Portugal’s most luxurious Baroque buildings

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Portugal[Portugal]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Lisbon District [Lisbon District]

City where the attraction is located: Mafra [Mafra]