Palace of Mafra, Mafra

The Palace of Mafra, a grandiose baroque and neoclassical monument, stands as a testament to the opulence of the Portuguese 18th century. Located in the town of Mafra, less than an hour’s drive from Lisbon, this palatial complex is not just a palace but also a monastery and a basilica, all encompassed in one magnificent structure.

Commissioned by King João V in 1717 as a fulfillment of a vow he had made should his wife, Maria Anna of Austria, bear him offspring, the palace was constructed over a period of 13 years. The birth of his first daughter, Princess Barbara of Braganza, saw the start of the building's construction, which would come to symbolize the king’s power and the wealth of the Portuguese empire.

As visitors approach the palace, they are greeted by its imposing façade, stretching over 220 meters, and the two turrets that flank the basilica. The palace's interior is equally stunning, with more than 1,200 rooms adorned with lavish furniture and decorations that reflect the wealth and taste of the Portuguese royalty. The library, considered one of the most important in Europe, contains over 36,000 volumes and is known for the colony of bats that are cared for and used to protect the books by eating insects.

The basilica is the heart of the complex, with its marble floors and six organs, which are still in use today. The monastery includes a hospital, a pharmacy, and living quarters for the Franciscan monks who once resided there. The site also features a significant set of bells, known for their carillon that continues to echo across the town of Mafra.