Mafra is a city located in the Lisbon District of Portugal. The city has been gaining increasing attention among immigrants looking to live in Portugal. With a population of 86 thousand inhabitants, the city is not only close to the coast and the enchanting village of Ericeira with its beautiful beaches, but also offers various attractions for those seeking to reside in a tranquil location with beautiful natural landscapes, good healthcare services, public transportation, and excellent schools.
Furthermore, the average property prices in the city are considerably more affordable than those in cities along the Lisbon-Cascais line, which is a major advantage for those looking to live in Portugal.
The imposing Mafra Palace, also known as the Mafra Convent, deserves special mention. The construction was classified as a National Monument in 1907 and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2019. We will provide more details about the Palace in the “What to Do in Mafra” section later in this article.
Where is Mafra Portugal?
Mafra is a picturesque city located in the Lisbon District of Portugal, approximately 30 kilometers northwest of the capital city, Lisbon. Situated near the coast, the city enjoys a strategic location that offers residents both the tranquility of countryside living and easy access to the urban life of Lisbon. Its proximity to the enchanting village of Ericeira, known for its beautiful beaches and world-class surfing spots, further enhances its appeal.
Mafra is also conveniently close to tourist cities like Cascais and Sintra, and it hosts a variety of tourist attractions, a rich history, and culture.
See below where is Mafra Portugal in Google Maps:
Why Live in Mafra Portugal?
When my family and I arrived in Portugal, Mafra and Ericeira were two cities we considered living in. Mafra proved to be very interesting due to its proximity to the coast and good schools, two factors that were priorities on our list. Learn more about the schools in Mafra by accessing the official municipality website.
The city also offers properties at considerably more affordable prices than Cascais and has an interesting development “lung,” meaning it has great potential for appreciation.
What to Do in Mafra, Portugal?
Wondering what to see in Mafra Portugal. Here is a list of the main things to do in the city:
Palácio de Mafra National Palace Portugal
The Palace of Mafra is the city’s postcard and the largest national monument in Portugal. The mega-baroque construction, with German and Roman influences, has 1200 rooms, almost 5 thousand doors and windows, dozens of courtyards and halls, among other compartments. The palace also houses one of the most important Enlightenment libraries in Europe, with about 30 thousand volumes.
Palace National Library of Mafra
As mentioned above, the Palace is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is both a palace and a convent. Its construction was the subject of José Saramago’s book “Memorial do Convento” (“Baltasar and Blimunda”). It is one of the most visited monuments in Portugal.
The decision to build the Palace was made by King John V, as a result of a promise made if the queen gave him offspring. One year after the birth of Infanta Maria Bárbara, the king began the construction of what would be, initially, a small convent to house 13 friars. However, with the volume of gold and other riches coming from Brazil, the project took on different proportions.
Tapada Nacional de Mafra
The Tapada Nacional de Mafra is a natural reserve of approximately 800 hectares. Created in the 18th century by King John V, the Tapada was originally used as a royal hunting area. Nowadays, it is a wildlife refuge, with a diversity of flora and fauna, including deer, wild boars, foxes, and a variety of birds. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, hiking trails, and observe animals in their natural habitat. Additionally, the Tapada Nacional de Mafra also offers educational and cultural activities, such as guided tours, exhibitions, and special events.
Eiriceira Beach
Ericeira, a picturesque seaside village located about 35 kilometers northwest of Lisbon, is a charming destination for lovers of the sea, culture, and good cuisine in Portugal. Recognized as a World Surf Reserve, Ericeira attracts surfers from around the world for its famous waves and relaxed atmosphere. In addition to surfing, visitors can enjoy beautiful golden sandy beaches, explore the narrow cobblestone streets of the historic center, and visit points of interest such as the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Nazaré and the Ericeira Lighthouse. The welcoming atmosphere of the village extends to its seaside restaurants, where fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes are the highlights of the menu. With its unique combination of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and laid-back lifestyle, Ericeira captivates visitors and invites them to explore its natural beauty and authenticity.
Thinking of buying property in the area?
CAP International is a global real estate agency specialized in Portugal. If you would like to learn more about real estate opportunities in the city of Mafra, Portugal, please contact us now and chat with me on WhatsApp: +351 91 252 9806 (Bruna Barros).