Museu Nacional do Azulejo

The very location of this museum is worth a visit: it is housed in a beautiful monastery (Convento de Madre de Deus) from the 16th century. The many ceiling and wall paintings of saints and kings are very impressive. The museum itself is no less spectacular. Learn all about the historical, technical and artistic development of these decorative ceramic tiles.

The highlight of the museum is a panel in white and blue that is 23 metres long and consists of 1300 tiles. It is a panorama of Lisbon in 1738, so just before the great earthquake wreaked havoc. In addition, there are many other large and small tile panels. The oldest dates from the 15th century, but the art is still practiced in Portugal and therefore some modern azulejos have been added to the collection.

In the souvenir shop you can buy replicas of these azulejos. Once you've left the museum, you'll see Lisbon with a whole new set of eyes and discover azulejos everywhere. Each tile panel - small or large - tells a story. At the doors of houses you will find tile panels of saints to protect the house against disaster. In the metro, renowned artists have made tile panels. And in the house Ferreira das Tabuletas there are panels with symbols of freemasonry. To better understand the history and culture of Portugal, this museum is one of the sights in Lisbon that shouldn't miss.