Open the doors of the Azulejos Museum and be charmed by the colors of these beautiful Portuguese tiles. This peculiar museum, hosted inside the Madre de Deus former convent, will help you discover the charming history of the art of tiles in Portugal.
One of the features that make Lisbon such a charming city are its beautiful tiles that decor facades, streets, and metro stations. It is not a big surprise that there is a tile museum in this city.
The National Azulejo Museum – Museo Nacional do Azulejo in Portuguese – hosts a permanent exhibition that showcases the history of the tiles in Portugal, from the 16th century to date.
From tiny fragments to a beautiful panel showing the city of Lisbon prior the devastating earthquake of 1700; the museum exhibits some beautiful tiles of all shapes and origins. The subjects featured on the tiles are very different; from geometric patterns to religious figures and daily objects.
The Azulejos Museum is by far one of the most charming museums of Lisbon, and it is still pretty unknown to tourists compared to other famous attractions. This means that you will not run the risk to find long lines at the entrance.
If you are really interested in Portuguese traditions you can’t miss this museum that showcases the most essential and peculiar aspects of this form of art. We recommend a visit also to those who, despite not being very found of art, still want to learn more about Portugal or to those who are curious to see a unique museum that can’t be found anywhere else in the world.
The building where the museum is hosted is extremely beautiful and it features a beautiful church that is only open to the museum visitors.
Lastly, the Azulejos Museum can also be a charming place where to spend some time on a rainy day; although it is rare to have a rainy day in Lisbon, it is good to have ideas on what to do!
The best way to reach the Azulejos Museum is by bus. Santa Ape127olonia, the closest train station, is located about 20 minutes walk from the museum.
City Card allow you to save on public transport and / or on the entrances to the main tourist attractions.