Library of the Mafra National Palace, library in Mafra, Portugal
The Library of the Mafra National Palace is an 18th-century book and manuscript repository with baroque design and hand-crafted wooden shelves holding thousands of rare and old works. The rooms extend across multiple areas with ornate ceiling paintings and preserve an extensive collection spanning several centuries.
Construction began in 1717 under King Joao V and aimed to display Portugal's wealth and power following gold discoveries in Brazil. The building work lasted more than two decades and reflects European architectural influences of the era.
The library reflects how the Portuguese royal court valued knowledge and learning through its grand design. Visitors can see how the carefully carved shelves and painted ceilings express the importance placed on books and scholarship.
The library has specific opening hours during weekdays that visitors should check in advance before arriving. The building is accessible and the library sits within the larger palace complex, allowing sufficient time to explore all areas.
The building houses a small colony of bats behind the book shelves that act as natural pest controllers, catching insects like moths and bookworms. These bats have helped protect the old book collection from damage for centuries.
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