Tapada Nacional de Mafra
A historic walled forest in Mafra used for biodiversity conservation, research and public nature activities. It is part of the Real Edifício de Mafra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tapada Nacional de Mafra is an enclosed forest in Mafra, Portugal, with centuries of history. It began as a royal hunting ground. Today it's a protected natural area, where deer, fallow deer and other species roam freely through varied forest. Its work centres on scientific research and conservation, and that work is aligned with the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
The public can join a calendar of seasonal activities: firefly-watching evenings, watching the deer during the rutting season, guided awareness-raising walks, and special educational programmes for the site's 280th anniversary. Visitors can also stay overnight in the forest or enjoy birthday celebrations and corporate events. A sign-language programme covering 15 themes is there to make visits accessible to everyone.
In June 2019 the Tapada was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the Real Edifício de Mafra, together with the Royal Palace, the Basilica, the Convent and the Cerco Garden. The listing recognised its cultural, historical and environmental value.
The Tapada publishes its conservation results. One of them is the confirmation that the firefly *Luciola lusitanica* is an endemic species. Its rewilding and biodiversity work has also been publicly recognised. Visits are ticketed, and the site balances guided tours, accommodation and educational outreach with looking after the environment.
Our Goal
To preserve and promote the biodiversity, cultural heritage and history of the Tapada Nacional de Mafra, a walled forest, while offering visitors leisure and educational activities in nature.
Our Wishes
Visitors, corporate partners and researchers are welcome to take part in the Tapada's conservation programmes and seasonal nature activities.
