Leiria, Bombarral, Portugal

Torre dos Lafetas — Heritage, History, and Contemporary Living in the Heart of the West

We present to you a truly unique property where historical legacy meets modern comfort, located in the picturesque village of Carvalhal, just 50 minutes from Lisbon.

At the heart of this estate stands the Torre dos Lafetas, a building with historical records dating back to the 13th century, once used by King D. Dinis during his hunting trips in the region. Beside it, a 16th-century manor house built by the Lafeta family after their arrival in Portugal — heirs who were also linked to the construction of the remarkable Quinta dos Loridos.

Living History with Exemplary Restoration

In 1998, a significant architectural restoration — designed by Vaz do Carmo — brought new life to the tower and the house. The project fully respected the original facades and roofs, preserving the historical character of the buildings, while the interior was completely renovated with modern structural reinforcements. The result is a harmonious dialogue between the old and the new, highlighting and honoring the essence of this unique place.

Today, the property features:

3 bedrooms in the main house;

1 additional bedroom with support in a separate annex;

Extensive, well-maintained land with fruit trees (apple, pear, walnut), a natural spring, a small pond, and potential for further development — including the possibility of installing a swimming pool.

A Village with a Portuguese Soul

Carvalhal is a charming village, faithful to its roots, with strong traditions such as the Christmas bonfire in front of the church, local festivals, processions, and the famous local Philharmonic Band — one of the oldest in the country — which once rehearsed at this property.

Just minutes away are iconic sites such as the Bacalhôa Buddha Eden, Quinta dos Loridos, the historic town of Óbidos, the Caldas da Rainha thermal baths, and several beaches only 15 to 30 minutes away.

Historical Curiosities

The tower is not just architecture — it’s memory. In the early 20th century, a slave collar was discovered here, later given to ethnographer Leite de Vasconcelos. The piece disappeared for decades and was rediscovered during the pandemic. The tower was even mentioned by José Saramago in his book Journey to Portugal, noting its historical and symbolic significance.

Torre dos Lafetas is not just a house — it’s a rare opportunity to live History.