Mafra convento e tapada

17 min (17,9 km) via de A21 

Built in the 18th century by King João V in fulfillment of a vow to obtain succession from his marriage to D. Maria Ana of Austria or the cure of a disease he suffered, the National Palace of Mafra is the most important monument of the baroque in Portugal.

Constructed in lioz stone of the region, the building occupies an area of nearly four hectares (37,790 m2), comprising 1200 divisions, more than 4700 doors and windows, 156 staircases and 29 courtyards and lobbies. Such magnificence was only possible because of the gold of Brazil, which allowed the Monarch to put into practice a policy of patronage and reinforcement of royal authority.

For the Royal Work of Mafra, he commissioned the King's works of sculpture and painting from great Italian and Portuguese masters, as well as, in France and Italy, all religious vestments and implements.

In Flanders, he also commissioned two carriages with 92 bells, which are the largest historical ensemble in the world.

It was also the favorite Palace of D. João VI that commissioned, in the late eighteenth century, mural paintings for various rooms as well as a new set of 6 organs for the Basilica.

This monument has one of the most important European libraries

Never having been a permanent residence of the Royal Family, the Palace of Mafra was until the end of the monarchy frequently visited by the monarchs, who came here to celebrate some religious festivals or to hunt in the Tapada.

It was also in Mafra that the last King of Portugal, D. Manuel II spent his last night in the country before his departure to exile when the Republic was established, on October 5, 1910.