Built by order of King João V, consists of a Royal Palace, a basilica, a convent and a game reserve. Highlights include 2 carillons, 6 historic organs, a library and an 18th century infirmary.
Virtual Tour
Church | Ground floor | 1st floor
The National Palace of Mafra was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019.
The Royal Palace occupies the noble floor of the Mafra building and the 2 turrets.
The north turret was occupied by the king and the south turret by the queen, and both turrets are linked by a 232-metre gallery – making it Europe’s largest palatial corridor. This building, of about 40,000 m2, housed a Franciscan convent (300 fryers) – and features Campo Santo, the Infirmary, the Elliptical Hall (capitular), the Literary Acts Hall, the Stairway and the Dining Hall.
It boasts a large library thought to be one of the most beautiful in the world. The Royal Building has two carillons with 98 bells – the largest of its time. The Basilica’s 6 organs are pieces of unique heritage worldwide.
The Royal Convent and Palace of Mafra is the most important baroque monument in Portugal. The building covers an area of almost four hectares (37.790 m2), including 1.200 rooms, more than 4.700 doors and windows, 156 stairways and 29 inner yards and courtyards.
Such magnificence was only possible due to the Brazilian gold that poured into the country, allowing the King to carry out his patronage of the arts and the strengthening of royal authority.
Schedule
. Palace:
Every day, except Tuesdays.
From 9:30 to 17:30 (last entry 16:45).
. Library (readers)
Business days (except Tuesday) - 9:30-13:00pm and 14:00-17:00.
. Basilica:
Daily from 9:30 to 13:00 and from 14:00 to 5:30.
Closed: Tuesdays and January 1st, Easter Sunday, May 1st, Ascension/Espiga Thursday (Municipal Holiday) December 25th.
Price
Adult - 8€
Junior - 50%
Senior - 50%
Family - 50%
Reduced rates and exemptions:
- Every Sunday and Holiday - free entrance for residents in Portugal;
- Children aged 12 and under;
- Unemployed EU citizens;
- Visitors with reduced mobility (> 60% disability/documented).