Firefighter Museum

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Santos-o-Velho

Location

The Fire Brigade Museum is located in the Santos-o-Velho area, a historic part of Lisbon, situated by the Tejo River. This neighbourhood has a unique character, blending tradition with a discreet modernity, and is known for the presence of embassies and old buildings. Its location offers a quieter environment compared to more central areas, while maintaining proximity to the riverside.

A Remarkable Collection

The museum houses a rich and diverse collection, considered of great value and even pointed out as one of the best collections of its kind in Europe. This material heritage brings together centuries of history of fire-fighting services in the city of Lisbon, gathering objects that bear witness to the evolution and dedication of firefighters over time. The collection includes both pieces that were part of the corporation's daily life and others that were donated by individuals or other institutions, enriching its holdings.

Historic Vehicles and Equipment

Among the most fascinating elements of the collection are the vehicles and equipment used in the past. It is possible to observe more than fifty vehicles, from those pulled by human strength or horses to the imposing steam pumps of the late 19th century. These pieces are not just old machines; they tell stories of interventions and technical progress. Notably, there is a 19th-century boiler pump that belonged to Emperor D. Pedro II of Brazil and was offered by Infante D. Afonso, illustrating the historical relevance and connections of the exhibited pieces.

Preserving Memory

The creation of this museum had the fundamental purpose of studying, conserving, and disseminating the long history of fire-fighting services in Lisbon. In addition to safeguarding this heritage, the space seeks to promote public awareness of crucial safety issues in the city and environmental protection. Thus, it serves as a memory center that honours the work of firefighters and educates visitors about the importance of prevention and readiness in emergency situations.

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