Portuguese Masonic Museum

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Bairro Alto

Location

The Portuguese Masonic Museum is located in the heart of Bairro Alto, a historic area with its own identity in the city of Lisbon. It occupies the Palácio do Grémio Lusitano, a building with history dating back to the 17th century. This palace features architecture distinguished by its Mannerist expression, setting the museum in an environment full of character.

Origin and History

Founded in 1984, the museum is intimately linked to the Grande Oriente Lusitano, one of the oldest Masonic obediences in Portugal, with origins in 1802. The palace that currently houses it served different functions throughout the centuries, returning to the possession of Portuguese Freemasonry in 1974. The museum's initial collection consisted of pieces returned to the organization by the State, and was subsequently enriched with donations from Portuguese Freemasons.

Inside the Museum

When visiting the Portuguese Masonic Museum, one has the opportunity to observe and seek to understand the symbolism and meaning that characterize this organization. The museum space allows a close look at the tools, aprons, books, and crockery used in a Masonic context. It is also possible to experience the ambiance of the rooms, the arrangement of elements, the significance of the pillars, and the details of the mosaics on the floor, offering a perspective on the internal workings and rituals.

The Collection and Memory

In addition to the exhibited objects, the museum holds an important historical archive documenting the last 150 years of Portuguese Freemasonry, preserving the memory of its activity in the country. The museum's collection, constantly growing, includes pieces that allow tracing the evolution and practices of the organization over time. Its affiliation with the International Council of Museums (ICOM) underscores the relevance and cultural value of its collection.

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