Mafra

Mafra is a city located in the Lisbon district, in the Lisbon and Tagus Valley region, which combines history, culture, natural beauty and quality of life. Its rich heritage and landscape, together with its proximity to Lisbon, make it an attractive option for living and investing. The real estate market in Mafra has shown sustained growth, reflecting the growing interest in this Portuguese city.

Whether to visit, live or invest, Mafra is a destination that deserves to be discovered, providing a unique and enriching experience to all those who venture into its historic streets and stunning natural landscapes.

Brief history

The history of Mafra dates back to the Middle Ages and is closely linked to the construction of the National Palace of Mafra, begun in 1717 by King D. João V. This monumental building, considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2019, was built in baroque and neoclassical style and it is one of the most important symbols of the city. The construction of the palace boosted the development of Mafra, which became a royal village and later a city.

Demographics and economy: Mafra has a population of around 80,000 inhabitants. The local economy is diversified and is based on sectors such as agriculture, industry, commerce and, increasingly, tourism. Tourism has been a growth engine for the city, thanks to the richness of its historical and cultural heritage and the beauty of its natural landscapes.

The Municipality of Mafra

Mafra is made up of 11 parishes, each with its own demographic and economic characteristics and points of interest. Each parish of Mafra has distinct characteristics and unique points of interest, which contribute to the cultural and scenic richness of the municipality. The demography of the parishes varies, with some areas being more rural and others more urban, such as the parish of Mafra and the town of Ericeira.

The economy of the parishes is diversified, with sectors such as agriculture, livestock, industry, commerce and tourism playing an important role in local development. Tourism has been a growth engine for several parishes, especially Ericeira, known for its beaches and surfing.

Here is a brief description of each of them:

• Azueira and Sobral da Abelheira : This parish, resulting from the union of the former parishes of Azueira and Sobral da Abelheira, has an economy based on agriculture and livestock. The Mother Church of Azueira stands out, an important religious heritage of the region.
• Carvoeira : Carvoeira is a predominantly rural parish, with a landscape marked by valleys and hills. The local economy is based on agriculture and livestock. The Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição is one of its points of interest.
• Encarnação : This parish has São Julião Beach, a popular spot for surfers and bathers. The local economy is diversified, with emphasis on agriculture, fishing and tourism.
• Enxara do Bispo , Gradil and Vila Franca do Rosário: Resulting from the union of three former parishes, this area has an economy based on agriculture and industry. The Gradil Palace and the Mother Church of Enxara do Bispo are two local points of interest.
• Ericeira : The fishing village of Ericeira is known for its beaches and surfing. It was classified as a World Surfing Reserve in 2011. The local economy is heavily influenced by tourism, trade and fishing. Traditional architecture and narrow streets are other attractions of Ericeira.
• Mafra: It is the seat of the municipality and where the National Palace of Mafra is located, an important historical and cultural heritage. The local economy is diversified, including commerce, services, tourism and some industry.
• Malveira : Malveira is a parish with an economy based on agriculture, industry and commerce. It is known for the traditional Feira da Malveira, one of the largest weekly fairs in the region. The Santo Antão Church is one of the local points of interest.
• Milharado : This parish is known for its rural landscape and agricultural activities. The Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Assunção is one of its points of interest.
• Santo Isidoro : Santo Isidoro has an economy based on agriculture, livestock and rural tourism. The Igreja Matriz de Santo Isidoro is one of the local points of interest.
• São Miguel de Alcainça : This parish is characterized by its rural landscape, with an economy based on agriculture and livestock. The Church of São Miguel de Alcainça is one of its points of interest.
• Venda do Pinheiro and Santo Estêvão das Galés : Resulting from the union of two former parishes, this area has a diversified economy, including agriculture, industry, commerce and services. The Municipal Sports Park of Venda do Pinheiro is an important infrastructure for the practice of sports and outdoor activities. The Church of Santo Estêvão das Galés is another point of local interest.

Real estate market in Mafra

The real estate market in Mafra has shown sustained growth in recent years, driven by the increase in tourism and the demand for permanent or secondary residences.The property offer is diversified, from apartments to villas, and prices are generally more affordable than in the capital Lisbon. The most sought after areas include the historic center of Mafra, the village of Ericeira and the surrounding countryside.

Investing in real estate in Mafra can be a good option for those looking for a house to live in or to rent it out to tourists. The local rental market has been growing, with constant demand from national and international visitors, attracted by the cultural offer and outdoor activities available in the region.

Points of interest

Mafra National Palace: The jewel in Mafra's crown, this monumental palace includes a basilica, library and convent. It is a magnificent example of Baroque and Neoclassical architecture and a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

Tapada Nacional de Mafra: A natural reserve with about 800 hectares, the Tapada Nacional de Mafra is an ideal green space for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnics and observation of the local fauna and flora.

Praia da Ericeira: About 10 km from Mafra, the fishing village of Ericeira is known for its beaches and surfing. It was also classified as a World Surfing Reserve in 2011.

Attraction to live and live: Mafra is an attractive city to live and live thanks to its cultural richness, natural beauty and quality of life. The proximity to Lisbon, just 40 km away, facilitates access to work and leisure opportunities in the capital. In addition, the city has a good public transport system and a wide range of services and amenities.