Category: Civil Architecture > Museum
District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa
Located in Lisbon, in the Penha de França area, the National Azulejo Museum is housed in what was once the Convent of Madre de Deus. This site, historically located near the river and surrounded by agricultural lands, although now part of the consolidated urban landscape, maintains the dignity of its past and offers a distinct perspective of the city.
The building that houses the museum has a long history. It is the former Convent of Madre de Deus, a religious institution founded in 1509 by Queen D. Leonor. Over the centuries, the convent grew and underwent several transformations and enlargements, becoming a place of great historical and architectural significance before becoming home to the national azulejo collection.
The museum's main collection guides visitors through the history of azulejo in Portugal, from its arrival and first uses in the 15th century to contemporary production. It is an opportunity to observe the evolution of techniques, patterns, materials, and colours that characterise this art form, so distinctive of Portuguese culture and recognised worldwide.
The permanent exhibition begins with an introduction to the materials and manufacturing processes of azulejo, explaining how these pieces are created. From this foundation, the exhibition follows a chronological organisation, presenting examples from different eras and styles, from the oldest panels to the most recent cladding tiles.
In addition to the azulejo collections displayed in the various rooms, the very building of the former convent constitutes a central and fascinating element of the visit. Of particular note is the Church of Madre de Deus, considered one of the most remarkable examples of Portuguese Baroque. Its interiors are richly decorated, harmoniously integrating azulejo panels, exuberant gilded carving (talha dourada), and paintings.
The architectural complex also includes a 16th-century Mannerist cloister, which invites a moment of pause, a sacristy with notable furniture, and a high choir with detailed carving ornamentation. These historical spaces allow one to appreciate how azulejo was integrated into other decorative arts, creating environments of great beauty and visual impact that reflect the artistic opulence of different eras.
In addition to azulejo, the museum occasionally features pieces of other historical ceramics that complement the narrative of decorative art and ceramic production in Portugal.
One of the highlights of the visit for many visitors is a vast azulejo panel that offers a detailed panoramic view of Lisbon before the 1755 earthquake. This work is a unique visual representation of the city and the Tagus estuary at that time, allowing for a singular observation of its topography and buildings.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.7251213,-9.1139169
Coordinates DMS: 38°43'30.4"N 09°06'50.1"W
Weather Lisboa
On-duty Pharmacy Lisboa
