National Palace of Mafra: The Grand Baroque Treasure of Portugal скачать в хорошем качестве

National Palace of Mafra: The Grand Baroque Treasure of Portugal

Historical Context Inaugurated in 1730, the National Palace of Mafra was born from King D. João V’s vow, in which he promised to erect a convent if his queen, Maria Ana of Austria, provided him with offspring. With the arrival of wealth from Brazil, this modest initial project transformed into a grand complex – composed of a palace, basilica, convent, a magnificent library, gardens, and even an extensive hunting park. It is a symbol of the opulence and power of D. João V’s reign, reflecting the peak of the Portuguese empire. Architecture and Construction Designed by the German architect Johann Friedrich Ludwig, also known as João Frederico Ludovice, the palace impresses with its symmetry and grandeur. The façade, extending 220 meters, is flanked by imposing towers and displays a unique mix of Baroque and Neoclassical elements. At the heart of the complex, the basilica was conceived with the ambition to rival the greatest monuments of Rome, featuring a majestic dome, six historic organs – the only ones in the world that play in unison – and two carillons with a total of 98 bells, which announce the passage of time with an unmistakable sound. Internal Highlights and Features Inside the palace, every room tells a part of its history. The Library, considered one of the largest of its kind in Europe, houses about 30,000 volumes that testify to the culture and knowledge of the 18th century. The royal apartments, the audience halls, the music room, the hunting room, and many other spaces were designed to impress and highlight the absolute power of the monarchy. The Convent, which originally accommodated 330 friars, transports us to the monastic life of the period, while the meticulously planned gardens and the National Hunting Park of Mafra reveal the natural and recreational side of the former royal estate. Curiosities and Legacies Did you know that despite its grandeur, the palace was never a permanent residence of the royal family? It was mainly used to host the court during hunting seasons and festive events. Furthermore, its construction mobilized an average of 15,000 workers – reaching up to 45,000 at times – and cost the lives of approximately 1,400 laborers. This architectural and human feat even inspired writer José Saramago, who immortalized the work in his novel "Memorial do Convento."