We loved returning to Mata Pequena, a typical hillbilly village just outside Mafra and half an hour from bustling Lisbon, which is still the same as the last time we saw it, which is always great news.
As soon as I parked the car at the entrance to the village, so as not to disturb the traffic that flocks here at weekends, I realized that I was entering a reality that is unusual to see so close to Lisbon, just 30 minutes away by car.
Almost all made of stone, the small houses are lit by lamps and “protected” by a dense patch of greenery: ivy, pots full of flowers and an abundant forest that makes the village even more beautiful.
Next to the whitewashed walls, there are old bicycles, already posed to appear on various Instagram accounts. Likes are more than guaranteed.
Village “dedicated” to rural tourism
Currently refurbished to serve as accommodation for those looking for a quiet place in the “middle of nowhere”, but with the security and convenience of being close to everything, the village of Mata Pequena has been visited by many tourists and curious people who want to get a closer look at what villages used to be like, where there is no shortage of small community gardens, farm animals and, of course, a small central square.
The village of Mata Pequena is made up of a dozen little houses, all different, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquillity of the region.
Very close to Mafra, this village is located in the Penedo do Lexim Special Protection Area, next to an extinct volcano and a truly breathtaking natural landscape, the perfect place for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and spend a few peaceful days.
Since the Romans
At first glance, what seems to have been created to welcome tourists interested in the relaxation that only nature promises, is actually a village that dates back to the Roman occupation, as you can see from the remains.
But don’t think that all the houses are occupied by tourists. Of the 70 or so inhabitants who used to live here, only a few still live and keep alive the customs of y esteryear.
Mata Pequena is, therefore, still a “living” example of the traditional architecture of the Saloia region, with its original identity very much in evidence… which is why it’s worth a trip there.
Mata Pequena is, above all, the ideal destination for those who want to discover a village almost untouched by time, capable of offering you an immersive experience of what Portuguese rural life was like.
Since the space serves as an “escape” from the hustle and bustle of the city, it is natural that it is often “invaded” by people from the city and the surrounding area.
In this sense, we urge all visitors to continue to make this village a place of peace and tranquillity, and to try to visit it on less hectic days, such as weekends.