Water Museum

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Graça

Location

The Water Museum is located in the historic Graça district, a traditional area of Lisbon.

This part of the city is known for its genuine atmosphere and its location on one of the hills, although the museum itself is situated on a more secluded street in the area.

A Journey Through the History of Water

This museum offers an exploration of the remarkable history of how Lisbon has been supplied with water throughout time.

Through its exhibitions, visitors can understand the evolution of water collection and distribution systems, from the oldest methods to contemporary technologies, tracing a path essential to the life of the city.

The Industrial Legacy of the Pumping Station

The museum occupies the premises of the former Barbadinhos Steam Pumping Station, a building of historical and architectural significance.

Dating back to the 19th century, this station was a pioneer in using steam engines to pump water to the higher areas of Lisbon. It is a preserved example of the city's industrial archaeology, where the impressiveness of the original machinery still awes visitors.

The Steam Giants

At the heart of the old station are the large steam engines that once ensured the water supply.

These pieces of engineering are the central point of the visit, allowing visitors to visualize the scale of effort required to bring water to the population in an era before widespread electricity. It is possible to see one of these engines in operation, demonstrating its original function.

Interactive Experiences

To complement the historical component, the museum has integrated more modern and interactive elements.

Resources such as tables with touchscreens and projections invite visitors to dynamically explore water-related topics, from its natural cycle to issues of global and local distribution and sustainability.

European Recognition

The cultural and historical value of the Water Museum has been internationally recognized.

The institution was awarded the Council of Europe Museum Prize, an acknowledgment that underlines its contribution to understanding European cultural heritage and raising awareness about the importance of water.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt