MAFRA

THE MONASTERY

Initially intended to accommodate just 13 monks, Mafra's project underwent successive expansions, culminating in a colossal building spanning approximately 40,000 square metres, equipped to house 300 Franciscan monks. The King, drawing from his treasury, ensured financial support for the convent's construction. Monks received alms biannually, comprising essentials like tobacco, paper, linen, and Burel cloth for habit-making. Each monk managed two habits, responsible for their washing and repairs. The monastery consumed substantial resources annually, including 120 wine barrels, 70 olive oil barrels, and 600 cows.

Adjacent to the monastery stood a walled garden featuring an orchard, multiple water tanks, and four ballgame fields for monk recreation, including a ring game and two fields for a traditional game called "laranjinha." During the early Peninsular War (19th century), the convent endured occupation by French and later a British allied garrison. Following the dissolution of Portugal's religious orders on May 30, 1834, the monastery transitioned to army ownership, presently serving as the School of the Arms headquarters. Visitors can explore various areas like the Cemetery Chapel, Infirmary, Chapter Room, Literary Acts Hall, La Lys staircase, and Refectory.

THE LIBRARY

Situated within the eastern wing of the Mafra complex, the remarkable 83-metre main room hosts the extensive library, a pinnacle of Portugal's 18th-century monastic and royal libraries. Organised by monks from the Convent of Arrábida, the collection of 40,000 volumes still remains intact, boasting rare editions from the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. Noteworthy works include the Nuremberg Chronicle (1493), Ortelius's Theatrum Orbis Terrarum (1595), and the Diderot et d'Alembert Biographie. Additionally, the library houses scores by renowned musicians like João de Sousa Carvalho and Marcos Portugal, specifically composed for Mafra's six organs.

Similar to Coimbra's University Joanina Library, Mafra's library hosts a colony of bats that aid in pest control by minimising insect damage. Released nightly, these industrious bats consume up to twice their body weight in insects, serving as a natural form of pest management for over 300 years. Each evening, credenzas are covered with leather sheets, and each morning, the library is cleared of bat guano.

Wednesday - Monday: 09h00 - 13h00/14h00 - 18h00, Tuesday: CLOSED.

Adult: €6.00, Child under 6: FREE, Lisbon Card: FREE

Getting There
Campo Grande (Mafrense)

Contact Details
Terreiro D. João V, 2640-492, Mafra, Portugal.
38° 56' 12.8"N | 09° 19' 40.2"W | +351 261 817 550
geral@pnmafra.dgpc.pt |  Website

Located just eight kilometres (5 mi) north of Mafra lies the former Royal Hunting grounds, transformed into a haven for relaxation and conservation. Established in 1747, this sprawling 819-hectare estate once catered to the needs of the Palace, royal family, and courtiers. Once a favoured retreat for King Carlos, the grounds now boast a diverse biodiversity, featuring rare flora and fauna across varied landscapes. Within its expansive forested areas dwell various species, including deer, wild boar, and the elusive Iberian lynx. The park offers a network of walking paths, mountain bike trails, and a range of recreational activities for visitors to partake in. Additionally, visitors can explore the remnants of defensive walls and ruined forts known as the Linhas de Torres, constructed during the Napoleonic Wars to safeguard Lisbon.
Weekdays: 09h00 - 17h00, Weekends: 09h00 - 18h000.

Contact Details
Tapada Nacional de Mafra - Portão do Codeçal - 2640-602 Mafra, Portugal.
38° 57' 52.8"N | 09° 18' 09.8"W | +351 261 810 100
geral@cm-mafra.pt |  Website

Nestled within the historic old town is the delightful 13th-century Gothic church, recently renovated to its former glory. The Church of Santo André houses the tombs of Dom Diogo de Sousa and his wife, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's rich history. Through archaeological excavations, insights into the church's evolution emerged, including 17th-century alterations such as the addition of the domed roof. Despite falling into disrepair by the late 19th century, extensive restoration efforts commenced in 1903, culminating in its designation as a national monument just five years later. Today, the Church of Santo André stands as a testament to the town's enduring heritage and architectural significance.Nestled within the historic old town is the delightful 13th-century Gothic church, recently renovated to its former glory. The Church of Santo André houses the tombs of Dom Diogo de Sousa and his wife, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's rich history. Through archaeological excavations, insights into the church's evolution emerged, including 17th-century alterations such as the addition of the domed roof. Despite falling into disrepair by the late 19th century, extensive restoration efforts commenced in 1903, culminating in its designation as a national monument just five years later. Today, the Church of Santo André stands as a testament to the town's enduring heritage and architectural significance.

Contact Details
Praça do Município, 2644-001, Mafra, Portugal.
38° 42' 29.8"N | 09° 08' 21.7"W | +351 261 810 100
geral@cm-mafra.pt

Since its establishment in 1987, the Iberian Wolf Recovery Centre (IWRC) has served as a vital sanctuary for this unique species, whose natural habitats have dwindled over centuries. Spanning 17 hectares, the park ensures the well-being of its resident wolves through dedicated care. The IWRC is committed to fostering awareness about the Iberian wolf, both in the wild and in captivity. Visitors to the centre can delve into the fascinating world of the Iberian wolf, learning about its biology, ecology, behaviour, and social structure, as well as the challenges it faces as a predator. While observing the wolves in their expansive, densely vegetated enclosures, sightings are not guaranteed. Guided tours are available to the public on Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays, with booking required. These tours, lasting 90 minutes, offer a captivating journey through the sanctuary's public areas, providing insights into the lives of these majestic creatures.
Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays: High Season: 16h00 - 20h00, Low Season: 14h30 - 18h000.

Contact Details
Quinta da Murta, Picão, 2665-150 Gradil, Mafra, Portugal.
38° 57' 38.5"N | 09° 16' 17.3"W | +351 261 785 037
crloboiberico@ciencias.ulisboa.pt |  Website