Convento de Mafra / Palácio Nacional de Mafra

Convent built by Dom João, in 1711, having as main architect Frederico Ludovice. It is the most luxurious national convent, proof of the richest reign in the country's history. It is of Johannine Baroque style and is inspired by the Spanish model of S. Lourenço of Escorial. It has three distinct elements, the Royal Palace, the convent and the Basilica. The facade is flanked by two large turrets, finding themselves at the Centre the Basilica, flanked by two bell towers. The interior of the Church, where is obvious the classical influence, has a nave, ornamented with marble of several colors, with high barrel vault and a cruise with a large dome. Deserves special mention the monumental statuary work of existing Portuguese, French and Italian masters. The Palace, the Museum and the convent library stands out, as well as the famous set of chimes, unique in the world by size and beauty, recently restored.