Amália Rodrigues House Museum

The Amália Rodrigues House Museum (Casa-Museu Amália Rodrigues) in Lisbon is the former home of the city's most celebrated fado singer, now open to visitors. Located on Rua de São Bento, it offers a look into the private life of an artist who lived within these walls for half a century.

What is this place?

The museum opened on 23 July 2001, fulfilling one of Amália's own deepest wishes: to open her home to the public and let people see her personal, intimate side. For roughly 50 years the building was her home. She lived here, welcomed those she loved, and spent her final days here. Today it is looked after by the Amália Rodrigues Foundation, which works to preserve and promote her legacy.

What does the building look like?

The house dates from the mid-18th century and is built in the pre-Pombaline style, the architecture typical of Lisbon before the reconstruction that followed the great earthquake. The whole property covers about 415 square metres, of which around 200 are the building itself and the remainder a patio with a garden. The walls are covered in blue azulejo tiles from the 17th and 18th centuries, one of the most recognisable features of Portuguese interiors.

What will I see inside?

The interior has been kept as Amália left it, with original furnishings and decoration that reveal her personal, eclectic taste. The collection includes:

• tapestries and paintings,
• azulejos,
• antique furniture,
• her dresses, stage jewellery and shoes.

Together they make it easy to picture the everyday life of a woman who remains forever in the hearts of the Portuguese.

How does the visit work?

The entrance is on the ground floor, while the museum route runs through the first and second floors. Fado concerts are held in the house on a regular basis, adding to the atmosphere of a place where music was part of daily life.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the museum? On Rua de São Bento in Lisbon.

When did it open? On 23 July 2001.

Was this really Amália Rodrigues' home? Yes. She lived here for about 50 years and spent her last days in the house, and the interiors remain as she left them.

How old is the building? It dates from the mid-18th century and is in the pre-Pombaline style.

Are there concerts? Yes, fado concerts take place at the museum regularly.

Who is it for? Fans of fado, music history and Portuguese azulejo interiors. It is also a quieter way to see Lisbon from a more personal angle, away from the busiest tourist routes, through the story of one of the country's greatest artists.

Before visiting, check current opening hours and ticket prices on the Amália Rodrigues Foundation website, as they can change with the season and with events held at the house.