Portuguese historical sites announce special guided heritage tours

Several historical sites in Portugal are hosting special cultural events to showcase their heritage.

The Palácio Nacional de Mafra will hold a special guided visit to its historic library on October 17, 2026. Recognized as one of Europe’s most important historical libraries, the collection contains approximately 36,000 volumes, including rare incunabula printed before 1500, the 1493 Nuremberg Chronicle, and early editions of the Diderot and d’Alembert Encyclopedia. The library is housed in a 18th-century room within a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Additionally, the Castelo de Palmela will host a guided tour on October 18 focused on medieval and modern necropolises. Part of the 5th Cultural Week in Cemeteries, the tour explores burial sites from the Middle Ages to the Modern Period. The excursion includes the Alcáçova of Palmela Castle and concludes at the Church of Santiago, where the tomb of Jorge, Duke of Coimbra and last Master of the Order of Santiago, will be presented.