National Azulejo Museum

Museu Nacional do Azulejo, sometimes called the National Tile Museum in English, is a national museum in Lisbon dedicated to the azulejo, the traditional tilework of Portugal. It is housed in the former Madre de Deus Convent, and its collection is counted among the largest of ceramics in the world. For anyone curious why painted tiles became a signature of Portugal, this is the place to find out.

What is an azulejo?

An azulejo is a decorated, usually hand-painted ceramic tile, typical of Portugal and the former Portuguese Empire as well as other Iberophone cultures. Tiles like these covered the walls of churches, palaces, convents and ordinary homes. The museum is devoted to that tradition and shows it in many forms.

What will you see in the collection?

The displays trace the story of tilework from the 15th century to the present day. You can follow how patterns, colours and subjects changed, from geometric motifs to large figurative scenes. One of the best-known pieces is the panorama of Lisbon as it looked before the earthquake of 1755. It is roughly 23 metres long, dates from around 1700 and is attributed to the Spanish painter Gabriel del Barco. It is a precious record of a city that the disaster largely destroyed.

Why is the building special?

The museum occupies the former Madre de Deus Convent, founded in 1509 by Queen Leonor. Several building campaigns followed, notably after the 1755 earthquake, so the complex today combines a range of styles. These include Mudéjar, seen in the ceiling of Queen Leonor's chapel, and Manueline, found on the ground floor of the small cloister. The museum itself was established in 1965. The convent church stands out for its lavish Baroque decoration of gilded and carved wood, paintings and tile panels.

Planning your visit

The museum stands in eastern Lisbon on Rua da Madre de Deus, at about 38.7244 N, 9.1139 W. It usually opens Tuesday to Sunday, roughly from 10:00 to 18:00, and may close on Mondays and certain holidays. Last entry is typically a little before closing time. Check the official website for current hours and ticket prices before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Is Museu Nacional do Azulejo the same as the National Tile Museum? Yes, that is the English name commonly used for the museum.

Where is the museum? In Lisbon, Portugal, inside the former Madre de Deus Convent.

When was the convent founded? In 1509, by Queen Leonor.

What is the most famous exhibit? The large panorama of Lisbon before the 1755 earthquake, about 23 metres long.

How much time should I allow? The collection is extensive and the convent and church deserve attention too, so plan on at least a couple of hours.