Museums in Portugal

Museu – A Estação

Pinhal Novo

Museu – A Estação is a small municipal museum in Pinhal Novo, in the municipality of Palmela, Portugal. It occupies the former railway station building and tells the story of the people who kept the local railway running for generations. It opened on 1 June 2021. Why visit a museum in an old station? Pinhal Novo grew up around its station, and the local rail complex is regarded as the largest railway junction south of the Tagus. The museum therefore looks beyond locomotives and focuses on the railway community: families, trades and the everyday life of a town that depended on the line. The building dates from the 1930s. Its bonus feature is azulejos, the traditional Portuguese painted ceramic tile panels. Twenty-three decorative panels from 1938 survive here, and many visitors find them a highlight in their own right, showing how public buildings were once adorned. What is on display? The exhibition fills the central part of the station, including the main hall. Most items were donated to the Palmela Municipal Museum or lent by former railway workers and their families. Historical research on the rail lines that meet at Pinhal Novo rounds out the display. The story gives a voice to both the men and the women who worked on the railway. The trades represented include: track layers and maintenance crews, stokers and engine drivers, level crossing keepers, brake guards, station masters and ticket collectors, warehouse workers and porters, office staff, engineers and architects, workshop staff and telegraphists. Opening hours According to OpenStreetMap, the museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 12:30 and again from 14:00 into the late afternoon. It is closed on Mondays, and municipal sources add that it is closed on public holidays. Check the afternoon closing time before you go. The museum's phone number is +351 21 238 4171. Frequently asked questions Is the museum open on Mondays? No. It is open Tuesday to Sunday, with a midday break. When did the museum open? On 1 June 2021, in the former station building in Pinhal Novo. Is it a museum about trains only? Not really. The main theme is the railway community and the memory of its work, not a collection of rolling stock. What makes the building special? It is a 1930s station with 23 azulejo panels dating from 1938. Can I contact the museum before visiting? Yes, on +351 21 238 4171. Calling ahead is sensible around public holidays. Who is it for? It suits anyone interested in railway history, local stories and Portuguese decorative art. The visit is short, so it combines easily with other stops around Palmela and Setúbal. Think of it as a look at how transport shaped a town and the lives of its residents, rather than a conventional technical exhibition.

Madeira Story Centre

Madeira Story Centre is an interactive museum in Funchal that tells the story of the island from its volcanic birth to modern times. It stands in the Old Town on Largo Almirante Reis, opposite the lower Monte cable car station. It makes a good first stop for anyone who wants to understand where Madeira came from and why it mattered so much in the history of navigation. What can you see at Madeira Story Centre? The exhibition walks visitors through the eras in chronological order. It begins with the volcanic origins of the archipelago, formed some 14 million years ago. Next come the legends of discovery, the actual Portuguese arrival, a turbulent period of trade and rivalry, the years when the island held strategic importance, its economic flowering, the era after the great voyages, and a closing section on exploring Madeira today. The narrative stretches from Prince Henry the Navigator through the age of Napoleon to Winston Churchill and the first seaplane landing on the island. It is designed as a journey through time: rather than rows of display cases, you get multimedia and hands-on elements that keep history approachable, even for children. Is it worth visiting with family? Yes. The interactive format keeps the visit light, and a couple of hours is usually enough, often less. It is a handy option for a rainy day, when hiking or coastal plans need to change. The terrace and other facilities At the top there is a panoramic terrace with telescopes, offering views over the Old Town and its surroundings. On site you will also find a themed cafe and a shop selling Madeira-related souvenirs. Planning your visit According to official information the museum is open daily, generally from 9:00 to 19:00. Check the museum's website for current hours and ticket prices before you go, as they can change. Its position next to the Monte cable car station makes it easy to combine with a trip up to the gardens on the hill. Frequently asked questions Where is Madeira Story Centre? In Funchal's Old Town, on Largo Almirante Reis, opposite the Monte cable car station. What is the exhibition about? The history of Madeira: from the island's volcanic formation, through discovery and settlement, trade and strategic importance, to the modern era. Is there a viewing terrace? Yes, a panoramic terrace with telescopes, plus a cafe and a souvenir shop. Is it good for children? Yes, the displays are interactive and present history in an accessible, chronological way. How long does a visit take? Usually one to two hours, depending on how closely you explore each section.

Casa Museu João de Deus

São Bartolomeu de Messines

Casa Museu João de Deus is a house museum in São Bartolomeu de Messines, a village in the municipality of Silves in Portugal's Algarve region. It is dedicated to João de Deus de Nogueira Ramos, a poet and educator born in Messines. The museum opened on 25 October 1997. Who was João de Deus? João de Deus (1830–1896) is regarded as one of Portugal's notable nineteenth-century poets, yet he is remembered above all as an educator. He wrote the primer "Cartilha Maternal" in 1876, a method for teaching reading designed to give children an easier start at school. Many Portuguese schools and kindergartens carry his name, so a visit to his home village appeals to anyone curious about the history of education. What is there to see? The building stands on Rua Francisco Neto Cabrita, opposite the parish church, on the slope of the Penedo Grande hill. It is an imposing example of civic architecture, probably dating from the 17th century, with several levels and varied elevations. Its most recognisable feature is the door and window framing in red sandstone, a stone that turns a vivid red as it weathers. The material ties the house to the surrounding landscape of the region. Inside, the house serves two purposes. It is a museum presenting the life and work of its patron, and also a pedagogical and artistic centre for children and young people. The space is split into complementary sections meant to preserve the "memory of the place" and introduce the poet's legacy to a broad audience. It is therefore more than an exhibition: it also hosts educational activities and cultural events. Who is it for? The house museum suits travellers who want to see the cultural side of the Algarve, away from the beaches. It works well as a short stop while exploring Messines and its surroundings, especially for families with children, teachers and fans of Portuguese literature. A visit does not take long, yet it explains why the poet matters so much in Portugal. Frequently asked questions Where is Casa Museu João de Deus? In the centre of São Bartolomeu de Messines, on Rua Francisco Neto Cabrita, across from the parish church. Who is the museum dedicated to? João de Deus de Nogueira Ramos, a Portuguese poet and educator, author of the primer "Cartilha Maternal". When did it open? On 25 October 1997. What makes the building stand out? It has several levels and door and window frames of red sandstone. It probably dates from the 17th century. Is the museum only for adults? No. It also works as an educational and artistic centre for children and young people. Check current opening hours with the local parish council (Junta de Freguesia de Messines) before visiting.

Museu Municipal da Fotografia João Carpinteiro

Elvas

Museu Municipal da Fotografia João Carpinteiro in Elvas is a small museum devoted to the history of photography, set inside the former Cinema Central building in the old part of town, on Largo Luís de Camões. It opened in 2003 and is run jointly by the Elvas municipality and the João Carpinteiro Foundation. What is this place, and why does it exist? The museum grew out of a partnership between the local council and a foundation named after collector Dr. João Carpinteiro. His collection of photographic cameras forms the core of the displays. Besides exhibition rooms, the site has working facilities for its holdings: a darkroom for developing photographs, a conservation area for objects, a library and an image bank. What building does it occupy? The building began life as Cinema Central, which opened on 1 May 1938 and screened films for around twenty years. Today the former cinema serves a different visual art, and the address remains in the heart of historic Elvas, within walking distance of the town's main sights. What will I see inside? There are three rooms: the History of Photography Room, the Collector's Room and the Collection Room. The first traces the story of photography worldwide, with particular attention to Elvas. The others present Dr. Carpinteiro's collection. Among the cameras, the oldest is a folding bellows-type Vest Pocket model from 1912. What is the image bank? The museum's image bank holds roughly 2,750 digitised photographs. They document the life of the city: military, religious and monumental Elvas, plus various events and activities linked to it. For anyone curious about local history, it is a chance to see the town through the eyes of earlier photographers. When can I visit? The museum is at Largo Luís de Camões, 17350-001 Elvas, phone +351 268 636 470. In winter it opens 10:00-13:00 and 14:00-17:00; in summer 10:00-13:00 and 15:00-19:00. It is closed on Mondays, 1 January, Easter Sunday, 1 May and 25 December. Check the hours before you go, as there is a break in the middle of the day. Frequently asked questions Where is the museum? In the old town of Elvas, on Largo Luís de Camões, in a former cinema. When did it open? In 2003. Who assembled the camera collection? Dr. João Carpinteiro; the museum is run by the Elvas municipality together with his foundation. What is the oldest camera? A folding Vest Pocket camera from 1912. When is it closed? On Mondays, and on 1 January, Easter Sunday, 1 May and 25 December. How long should I allow? Three exhibition rooms can be seen at a relaxed pace in under an hour, which pairs well with a walk around the town centre.

Museu dos Baleeiros (Lajes, Azores)

Lajes do Pico

Museu dos Baleeiros in Lajes do Pico Museu dos Baleeiros (the Whalers' Museum) in Lajes do Pico, on Pico Island, is a cultural heritage monument of the Azores dedicated to the history of whale hunting. It is a good place to start if you want to understand how the island and its people lived for more than a century. What is the museum? The museum opened in 1988. It tells the story of whaling, which thrived on Pico from the nineteenth century until the 1980s. It is housed in a group of nineteenth-century buildings: three old sheds where whalers once kept their boats, and a former blacksmith's forge. The setting itself is part of the story of work along this coast. What can you see? The collection covers the tools of a dangerous trade: harpoons, boats and the equipment used during hunts. Another section shows pieces carved and engraved from whale bone and teeth, known as scrimshaw, a traditional craft linked to the profession. A small cinema screens a film about the whalers' lives and how the hunt was carried out. Visitors who want to dig deeper can use a specialised library. Why does it matter? In the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries Pico was a major centre of the whaling industry. Hunting was banned in the 1980s, and the last sperm whale caught in Azorean waters was taken in 1987, which ended whaling in Portugal. Today the Azores are committed to whale conservation, while the museum preserves the memory of the old trade and shows how much attitudes toward these animals have changed. Location and visit The museum stands in Lajes do Pico, on the southern coast of the island, at roughly 38.396 N, 28.254 W. It is listed as a cultural heritage monument of the Azores. Consider pairing the visit with a walk through the town itself, since this is where whaling left its strongest mark. Check current opening hours with local tourist information before you go, and allow at least an hour to see the exhibits and the film without rushing. Frequently asked questions Where is the museum? In Lajes do Pico, on Pico Island in the Azores, Portugal. When did it open? In 1988, in buildings that date from the nineteenth century. Is there more than a display of objects? Yes. There is a small cinema showing a film about whalers' lives, and a specialised library. What is scrimshaw? Carved and engraved objects made from whale bone and teeth, part of the museum's collection. Is whaling still practised in the Azores? No. Hunting was banned in the 1980s, and the islands now focus on protecting whales.

Museu da Casa do Arco

Vila de Frades

Museu da Casa do Arco is an archaeology museum in Vila de Frades, in the municipality of Vidigueira, in Portugal's Alentejo region. It presents the history of the area from prehistory to the 18th century, with the Roman villa of São Cucufate as its central theme. What is Museu da Casa do Arco? The museum was created as part of a programme to enhance the Roman ruins of São Cucufate and make them more rewarding for visitors. Its collection is a selection of archaeological material recovered during excavations carried out over several periods, ranging from prehistoric times to the 18th century. It works as a companion to the archaeological site: finds that are hard to display among the ruins themselves are shown here. What can you see? The exhibition is titled "A villa romana de São Cucufate" (The Roman Villa of São Cucufate). It displays objects uncovered during research at the site and helps explain what life was like on a Roman country estate in what is now southern Portugal. For anyone interested in archaeology, it is a good introduction before seeing the ruins, or a useful recap afterwards. The history of the building The building is an attraction in its own right. Casa do Arco once served as a men's prison, and the bars on the ground-floor windows still show it. They make for an unusual sight among the village's architecture. Until the middle of the 19th century the house was the residence of a wealthy Alentejo family, the Souto Maior. The museum therefore brings together several layers of history in one place: the Roman villa, and the more recent story of the house itself, from family home to prison. Who runs the museum? Three bodies share responsibility: the Regional Directorate of Culture of Alentejo (Direção Regional de Cultura do Alentejo), Vidigueira City Council, and the parish council of Vila de Frades (Junta de Freguesia). The arrangement makes the museum both a local and a regional undertaking. Is the museum open? According to available information, the museum is currently closed for requalification work, and the parish authorities are pushing for it to reopen. Before planning a visit, check its current status with the Vila de Frades parish or Vidigueira City Council. Frequently asked questions Where is Museu da Casa do Arco? In Vila de Frades, in the municipality of Vidigueira, in Portugal's Alentejo region. What does the exhibition cover? The Roman villa of São Cucufate and the archaeological finds from excavations at that site. What periods do the collections span? From prehistory to the 18th century. Why are there bars on the windows? The building used to be a men's prison, and the bars on the ground-floor windows have survived. Who runs the museum? The Regional Directorate of Culture of Alentejo, Vidigueira City Council and the Vila de Frades parish council. Can I visit it now? The museum is closed during requalification, so check current information before travelling.

Navy Museum

Lisboa

The Maritime Museum in Lisbon (Museu de Marinha) is dedicated to every aspect of Portugal's seafaring and navigation history. It stands in Belém, one of the most visited districts of the capital, and pairs naturally with the other sights nearby. Where is the museum? It sits in Belém, on the western side of Lisbon by the Tagus. The museum occupies part of the Neo-Manueline western wing of the Jerónimos Monastery, plus a modern annex north of the monastery. A visit therefore combines grand nineteenth-century architecture with spacious, contemporary exhibition halls. The coordinates are roughly 38.697 N, 9.208 W. Who runs it? The museum is managed by the Portuguese Navy. That shapes the collection: it concentrates on the country's maritime story rather than offering a general survey of art or culture. The collection traces back to King Luís I, who was interested in oceanography and gathered items related to the sea. The museum has stood on its present site since 1963. What can you see? The holdings include historical paintings, scale models of ships used in Portugal since the 15th century, archaeological objects, navigation instruments and charts. A separate highlight is the set of royal ceremonial barges. There are also aviation exhibits, among them the navy's first aircraft and the Fairey III "Santa Cruz" seaplane that crossed the Atlantic in 1923. The display covers both the Age of Discovery and the later development of maritime and air technology. Who is it for? Visitors curious about the Age of Discovery and Portugal's role as a sea power. Fans of ship models, maps and old navigational instruments. Families with children, who often connect with ships and aircraft more easily than with wall text. Anyone exploring Belém who wants to see the monastery complex from a different angle. Frequently asked questions Is the museum inside the Jerónimos Monastery? Partly. It occupies a section of the monastery's western wing and a separate modern building to the north. Who operates the museum? The Portuguese Navy. How long should I plan for a visit? About two hours at a relaxed pace, longer if you like studying models and charts in detail. When is it open? Travel sites usually list Tuesday to Sunday during daytime hours, with closures on Mondays and major holidays. Hours and ticket prices change, so check the official website before you go. Is it a good stop with children? Yes. Large models, royal barges and historic aircraft tend to impress younger visitors too. In short The Maritime Museum in Lisbon offers a solid overview of Portugal's seafaring past inside one of the city's key heritage complexes. If you are spending a day in Belém, treat it as a complement to the monastery and the riverside monuments, and confirm opening times before setting out.

Madeira Optics Museum

Funchal

Madeira Optics Museum (Museu de Óptica da Madeira) is a specialised museum in Funchal devoted to optical instruments. Its permanent display holds around 2,000 objects and traces how the tools for observing, measuring and capturing images have changed over the decades. How did the museum begin? The story starts in the 1960s, when Rui Aguilar, driven by a love of engineering and history, began collecting optical devices. The collection kept growing for decades. In 2014 a conversation between Rui and his son Sérgio Aguilar sparked the idea of a museum where the private collection could be shown to the public. What can you see? The collection spans many categories, with the largest being: telescopes and binoculars, movie cameras and movie projectors, photographic cameras, medical devices, microscopes, military equipment, topographic instruments. This range means the museum appeals beyond photography and cinema fans. People interested in astronomy, medicine, surveying or military history will find exhibits that speak to them. The objects show that optics served science and entertainment as much as everyday work and defence. What is the building like? The museum occupies a building from the end of the 19th century, registered as a Class 1 protected building for its special architectural or historic interest. The exhibition is spread over two floors. At the entrance there is a café and a small antique shop, both with free access. Where is it and how do you get in touch? Address: Rua das Pretas 51, 9000-049 Funchal. It sits in the historic part of the city, so a visit combines easily with a walk through the surrounding streets. Contact: +351 961 822 358, [email protected]. Check madeiraopticsmuseum.com for current opening hours and ticket prices. Frequently asked questions How many objects are on display? About 2,000 items are shown in the permanent exhibition. Is there a café? Yes. A café and a small antique shop are at the entrance, and you can use them without a ticket. Who started the collection? Rui Aguilar began collecting in the 1960s. The idea of a museum came in 2014 from a conversation with his son Sérgio. How long should I plan for a visit? With two floors and a collection this large, allow at least an hour. Technology enthusiasts may want considerably longer. Is it a good option on a rainy day? Yes. The museum is fully indoors, so it works well as a break from exploring Funchal outdoors.

Museu da Terra de Miranda

Miranda do Douro

Museu da Terra de Miranda is a regional museum in the historic centre of Miranda do Douro, in north-eastern Portugal's Trás-os-Montes region. It has been open since 1982 and shows how people lived in this remote border land above the Douro river. Its holdings range from archaeological finds to everyday objects, which makes it a good first stop for understanding the local culture. Who founded the museum, and when? The museum was founded in 1982 by Father António Maria Mourinho, a researcher and collector devoted to the region. The collection grew out of his systematic gathering of objects across the municipalities of Miranda do Douro, Vimioso and Mogadouro. As a result, the displays reflect the character of the whole area, not just the town itself. What building does it occupy? It is housed in a 17th-century building in the old part of town. The building once served as the town hall, the Domus Municipalis, and at one point was also used as a prison. For many visitors the story of the building is as interesting as the exhibits, since it shows how the purpose of civic buildings shifted over time. What can you see in the collection? The collection is wide-ranging. You will find: archaeological pieces from several historical periods, an ethnographic collection illustrating life in Trás-os-Montes, weapons, ceramics, coins and musical instruments, objects linked to hunting, herding and basketry, household equipment, clothing and means of transport, ritual objects and traditional arts and crafts. Of particular interest is the exhibition on the region's weaving traditions. It presents the tools used to prepare wool and linen, finished linen and woollen pieces, and a collection of regional costumes. Who is it for? The museum suits anyone curious about ethnography, local history and traditional crafts. It also pairs well with a walk through Miranda's old town, especially if you want a sense of everyday life in northern Portugal in earlier times. Frequently asked questions When was the Museu da Terra de Miranda founded? In 1982, by Father António Maria Mourinho. Where is it? In the historic centre of Miranda do Douro, in a 17th-century building. Is the collection only ethnographic? No. Alongside ethnography there are archaeological, numismatic and ceramic collections, weapons and much more. Where do the objects come from? Mainly from the municipalities of Miranda do Douro, Vimioso and Mogadouro. Should I check opening hours before visiting? Yes, check the museum's official website before you go, as hours and ticket prices can change.

Electricity Museum

Lizbona

The Electricity Museum in Lisbon (Museu da Eletricidade) occupies the former Central Tejo power station on Avenida de Brasília, right on the bank of the Tagus. It is a rewarding stop for anyone interested in technology and industrial architecture, and it pairs easily with a day of sightseeing in Belém. Today the site belongs to MAAT (the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology) as a route called Circuito Central Elétrica. What was the Central Tejo power station? The story begins in the early twentieth century with a small factory by the river that supplied Lisbon with electricity for roughly ten years. The power station operated from 1909 to 1972, although from 1951 it served only as a reserve plant. After it shut down, the buildings kept their original equipment inside. How did the museum come about? The museum was founded in 1979, when the board of the EDP company decided that Central Tejo should be converted into a museum. As a result, visitors can still see the authentic energy-production machinery, which forms the core of the permanent exhibition and is well preserved. What can you see inside? The visit leads through a series of halls and rooms, each devoted to a different stage of generating power: the Water Room, the Condensers Room, the Generators Room, the Control Room, the Experimental Room. In the last of these, visitors operate devices themselves and learn the principles of electricity by doing, which makes the museum a good choice when travelling with children. The huge machines, pipes and control panels impress with their scale and the atmosphere of a bygone industrial era. Why visit? The setting is special: the museum stands beside the Tagus, close to Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. Many travellers call it a hidden gem of Lisbon, since it is often overlooked next to the busier monuments nearby. It works well on a rainy day, or as a break from classic sightseeing. How to plan your visit The easiest approach is to combine it with a walk around Belém, where the district's main landmarks are a short stroll away. Allow around one to two hours for the halls, depending on how long you want to spend experimenting in the Experimental Room. Opening hours and ticket prices change, so check the current details on the MAAT website before you go. Frequently asked questions Where is the Electricity Museum in Lisbon? In the former Central Tejo power station on Avenida de Brasília, beside the Tagus in the Belém area. When was the museum founded? In 1979, when it was decided to turn the power station into a museum. Is it still a separate Electricity Museum? The site is now part of MAAT and runs as the Circuito Central Elétrica route, but the old power station and its machinery can still be explored. Is it suitable for children? Yes, especially the Experimental Room, where visitors can handle devices and observe electrical phenomena themselves. Is it worth combining with Belém? Absolutely. It sits near Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, so a full day in the area is easy to plan.

Medeiros e Almeida House-Museum

Lisboa

Medeiros e Almeida House-Museum (Casa-Museu Medeiros e Almeida) is one of Portugal's most important private collections of decorative arts. It occupies the former home of its collector at Rua Rosa Araújo 41, just off Avenida da Liberdade in central Lisbon. Who was António de Medeiros e Almeida? António de Medeiros e Almeida (1895–1986) was a businessman, collector and benefactor. In 1943 he bought the house near Avenida da Liberdade and began furnishing it, buying pieces at auction houses across Europe. The works were first meant to decorate the home and serve his social life, but after the Second World War many unique objects reached the market and the collection grew rapidly. In 1972 he created a foundation with the aim of giving the country a house-museum. It opened to the public in 2001. What can you see inside? The museum has twenty-seven rooms and roughly two thousand works of art. Holdings include furniture, paintings, sculpture, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, fans and sacred art. It feels like the passion of one person rather than an encyclopedic survey, so a visit is closer to stepping into a patron's private salons. How is the museum laid out? The building has two distinct parts: The residential area – a late nineteenth-century manor, kept as it was during the collector's lifetime. The new wing – built on the site of the former garden and designed as a museum. Its interiors evoke eighteenth-century French style. This lets you compare the everyday setting of a wealthy Lisboner with a display inspired by aristocratic salons of the past. Who is it for? It suits lovers of decorative arts, antiques and the history of collecting. It is also a calmer alternative to Lisbon's biggest museums, and its position on Avenida da Liberdade makes it easy to combine with a walk through the centre. Frequently asked questions Where is the museum? At Rua Rosa Araújo 41, by Avenida da Liberdade in Lisbon. How many rooms and works does it have? About twenty-seven rooms and around two thousand works of art. When did it open to the public? In 2001, although the foundation was created in 1972. Is it housed in a purpose-built museum only? No. Part of the collection is shown in the collector's former home, and part in a new wing built where the garden used to be. How long should I allow? With twenty-seven rooms, plan at least one to two hours. Check the museum's official website for current opening hours and ticket prices before your visit.

Museu das Comunicações

Lisboa

Museu das Comunicações in Lisbon Museu das Comunicações (the Communications Museum) is a technology museum in Lisbon devoted to the history of communication, with a particular focus on Portugal. It opened on 6 October 1997 and works to promote the study, conservation and dissemination of the country's historical, scientific and technological communications heritage. What is in the collection? The museum's holdings are organised into three collections: postal, telecommunications, and art and philately. The artefacts range from the 16th century to the present day. A highlight for collectors is the stamp collection, which covers Portugal and almost all member countries of the Universal Postal Union (UPU). The collections draw on the holdings of three institutions: the national regulator ANACOM (Autoridade Nacional de Comunicações), the postal service CTT Correios de Portugal, and the telecoms operator Altice Portugal. Which permanent exhibitions can you visit? There are three permanent exhibitions: "Vencer a Distância – Cinco Séculos de Comunicações em Portugal" ("Overcoming Distance – Five Centuries of Communications in Portugal"), tracing how communication developed across five centuries, "Casa do Futuro na Cloud" ("House of the Future in the Cloud"), about living in a smart city, "Mala-posta", dedicated to the mail coach. Who is it for? Fans of technology history, stamp collectors and curious travellers will find plenty here. It shows how messages travelled, from the era of mail coaches to smart-city living. It also makes a calm addition to a Lisbon itinerary, handy on a day with unsettled weather. Opening hours and contact According to OpenStreetMap, the museum is open Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 to 18:00 and on Saturday from 14:00 to 18:00. It is closed on public holidays. Phone: +351 213 935 000. Check current hours and ticket prices before you go, as they can change. Frequently asked questions When did the museum open? On 6 October 1997. Is it open on Sundays and Mondays? Based on available data, no: the hours cover Tuesday to Friday plus Saturday afternoon. What collections can I see? Postal, telecommunications, and art and philately, with items from the 16th century onwards. Are there stamps from other countries? Yes. The philatelic collection includes stamps from Portugal and almost all UPU member countries. How long should I plan for a visit? With three permanent exhibitions, allow at least an hour or two.

Museu da Farmácia

Lisboa

Museu da Farmácia in Lisbon is a museum devoted to the history of pharmacy, taking visitors through roughly five thousand years of health care. It sits in the Santa Catarina district, in the building of the National Association of Pharmacies (Associação Nacional das Farmácias), and its collection holds more than 16,000 objects. What is this place? The museum grew out of the wish of Portuguese pharmacists to preserve the history of their own profession. In 1981 the association appealed to every pharmacy in the country to donate items that would form the collection of a future museum. The museum opened in June 1996. It stands at about 38.710 N, 9.147 W, in the western part of central Lisbon. What is in the collection? The collection includes testimonies from many cultures and civilizations, not only Portugal. Between 1997 and 2010 the museum deliberately expanded its holdings, acquiring exceptional pieces at national and international auctions and from private collectors. The aim was a representative picture of the history of pharmacy worldwide. Highlights include: recreated interiors of four pharmacies, among them one from Macau, a portable pharmacy from the 18th century, a portable medical kit that flew aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour on mission STS-97. That last item shows how wide the subject is, from old prescriptions to medicine in space. Who is it for? The museum suits anyone curious about the history of science, medicine and everyday life. It is a good way to see a less obvious side of Lisbon away from the busiest sights. Objects from different eras and continents show how medicines, containers and the pharmacist's work have changed. Anniversary and the Porto branch In 2010 the museum opened a branch in Porto, extending its reach beyond the capital. In September 2026 it marks 30 years of operation, and the occasion has drawn attention to a rare coconut cup from the 17th and 18th centuries, linked to a mention in Camões's epic "Os Lusíadas". Frequently asked questions Where is Museu da Farmácia? In Lisbon's Santa Catarina district, in the building of the National Association of Pharmacies. When did it open? In June 1996, after a 1981 appeal to pharmacies to donate items. How many objects are in the collection? More than 16,000, covering about five thousand years of history. Is there anything space-related? Yes, a portable medical kit that flew on the Space Shuttle Endeavour during mission STS-97. Does the museum have a branch outside Lisbon? Yes, a branch opened in Porto in 2010. Summary Museu da Farmácia is an unusual, specialised museum combining the history of medicine, craft and material culture. Add it to your plan if you enjoy focused collections with stories hidden in single objects. Before visiting, check current opening hours and ticket prices on the museum's official website, as they may change.

Carmo Archaeological Museum

Lisboa

The Carmo Archaeological Museum (Museu Arqueológico do Carmo) is one of Lisbon's most striking sights: a museum set inside the ruins of a Gothic church that never got its roof back after the great earthquake of 1755. It stands in the Santa Maria Maior parish, on Largo do Carmo, just above the Baixa district. Why does the church have no vault? The Convent of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Convento do Carmo) was founded in 1389 by Nuno Álvares Pereira, a Portuguese knight and commander. Its church was counted among the most beautiful Gothic temples in the city. The 1755 earthquake destroyed the medieval convent and almost all of its religious and artistic furnishings. The ruined Gothic church, beside the convent's southern facade, remains the clearest trace of that disaster in Lisbon's old town. Instead of rebuilding it, the arches and pillars were left open to the sky. How did the museum begin? It was founded in 1864 by the Association of Portuguese Archaeologists (Associação dos Arqueólogos Portugueses) and was the first Portuguese museum devoted to archaeology and monumental art. The ruins became a stage for the collection from the start, not just a backdrop. What is on display? The collection spans a very long period, from prehistory to the 20th century. Highlights include: Roman sarcophagi, among them the well-known sarcophagus of King Ferdinand I, inscriptions (epigraphs) and Mozarabic steles, azulejo tile panels, noble coats of arms, reliefs and fountains, Gothic and Baroque sculpture, prehistoric objects from various excavations, architectural pieces rescued from churches suppressed after the Liberal Wars, two pre-Columbian mummies. The mix can be surprising: medieval Portugal sits alongside objects from entirely different continents. Planning your visit The museum is in the city centre, so it pairs easily with a walk through Chiado and the Baixa. Allow one to two hours. Opening hours vary by season and the museum is closed on Sundays, so check the official website before you go. Frequently asked questions Does the church have a roof? No. The main nave has stayed a ruin since 1755, so you walk through it under open sky. Who founded the museum? The Association of Portuguese Archaeologists, in 1864. Is it Portugal's first archaeology museum? Yes, it was the first in the country dedicated to archaeology and monumental art. What is the most interesting exhibit? Many visitors single out the sarcophagus of Ferdinand I and the two pre-Columbian mummies, though the Gothic arches themselves are just as memorable. Who is it for? History, architecture and photography lovers, and anyone who wants to see what the earthquake that reshaped Lisbon actually left behind.

Museu Municipal de Faro

Faro

Museu Municipal de Faro is the main history and archaeology museum of Faro in the Algarve, set inside the former convent of Nossa Senhora da Assunção (Our Lady of the Assumption). Its collections trace the story of Faro and the wider region from prehistory through Roman times to the Middle Ages. The building is a national monument and reason enough to visit. What is the history of the museum? It opened in 1894 to mark the 500th anniversary of the birth of Henry the Navigator, under the name Museu Arqueológico Lapidar Infante D. Henrique. It was the second museum created in the Algarve. In 1913 the collection moved to the church of the former Capuchin convent of Saint Anthony, where it stayed until 1971. It then moved to its current home in the Monastery of the Assumption. What is the building like? Construction began in 1519 on the initiative of two nuns from Beja, sponsored by Queen Leonor, who was then commander of the town of Faro. Around 1530 Queen Catarina funded a second phase, adding Renaissance work to the cloisters and the outer doorway of the church. The complex was completed in 1548. The cloister is considered one of the first built in a proto-Renaissance style in Portugal, so simply walking through it is part of the experience. What will you see in the collections? The museum holds more than 12,000 catalogued objects tied to the history of Faro and the Algarve. The archaeological pieces are the most significant, covering the prehistoric, Roman and medieval periods. Highlights from Roman times include: a mosaic dated to the 2nd or 3rd century, imperial busts of Hadrian and Agrippina, a collection of inscriptions from Ossonoba, the Roman predecessor of today's Faro. There are three archaeology exhibitions, including Islamic pottery and Roman inscriptions, sculptures and mosaics. The Islamic vessels are a reminder that the Algarve was part of the Muslim world for centuries, and even the region's name comes from Arabic. Who is it for? History and archaeology lovers, and anyone curious about what Faro was before it became a gateway to Algarve beaches. It also works well on a rainy day or as a quiet break from the sun. A visit typically takes an hour or two, depending on how long you spend with the inscriptions. Frequently asked questions Is the museum in a historic building? Yes, it occupies the 16th-century convent of Nossa Senhora da Assunção, a national monument. How large is the collection? More than 12,000 catalogued objects. What are the main highlights? Archaeology: a Roman mosaic, busts of Hadrian and Agrippina, Ossonoba inscriptions and Islamic pottery. When was the museum founded? In 1894, on the 500th anniversary of Henry the Navigator's birth. Is the cloister worth seeing? Yes, it is one of the first proto-Renaissance cloisters in Portugal, completed in 1548. Check current opening hours and ticket prices on official sources before you go, as they can vary by season.

Museu do Dinheiro

Lisboa

Museu do Dinheiro (the Money Museum) in Lisbon is a museum about the history of money, set inside the former Church of São Julião on Praça do Município. The building forms part of the former head office of the Banco de Portugal, the country's central bank. The museum opened to the public in spring 2016. Where is the museum? It stands in the heart of Lisbon, on the corner of Praça do Município, close to the river and to the grid of streets rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake. It makes an easy stop on a walk through Baixa and the surrounding area. What is the history of the building? The Church of São Julião was badly damaged in the 1755 earthquake. It was reshaped during the redesign of the capital carried out under the Marquis of Pombal. The church was later deconsecrated, and the Banco de Portugal acquired it in the 1930s. After renovation work in the early 21st century the bank re-established its headquarters on the site, and the museum was installed in the former church. Restoration and fit-out ran from 2007 to 2012, to a design by architects Gonçalo Byrne and João Pedro Falcão de Campos. What can you see inside? The permanent exhibition is arranged in nine thematic rooms. They present the numismatic collection of the Banco de Portugal along with other objects, supported by multimedia displays. Themes include: money before coinage and early forms of exchange, money in Portugal and around the world across the centuries, how coins and banknotes are made, the role of money in everyday life, the work of a central bank. On the ground floor a 12.6 kg gold bar is on display, and visitors are allowed to touch it. It is one of the most popular moments of the visit, especially for children and families. The basement level holds a section of King Dinis' Wall and related exhibits, linking the story of finance to the story of the city itself. Who is it for? The museum suits anyone interested in economics, coins or architecture, and it works well for families because much of it is interactive. The contrast between the sacred space of a former church and the subject of banking is part of the appeal. A visit helps explain how payment has changed, from barter to coins to modern banknotes and the role of today's central banks. Planning your visit Allow about an hour, or a little longer, to see the nine rooms and the basement at an unhurried pace. Opening hours and entry rules can change, so check the official museum website before you go. The location on Praça do Município makes it simple to combine with other central sights such as Praça do Comércio and the streets of Baixa. Frequently asked questions When did the Museu do Dinheiro open? It opened to visitors in spring 2016, after years of renovation and conversion work. Was the building once a church? Yes. The museum occupies the former Church of São Julião, damaged in the 1755 earthquake and acquired by the Banco de Portugal in the 1930s. How many rooms does the permanent exhibition have? Nine thematic rooms, from pre-monetary exchange to the tasks of the central bank. Can you touch the gold? Yes. A 12.6 kg gold bar on the ground floor is meant to be touched. Who designed the interior conversion? Architects Gonçalo Byrne and João Pedro Falcão de Campos.

Sacred Art Museum of Funchal

The Sacred Art Museum of Funchal (Museu de Arte Sacra do Funchal) is one of Madeira's most important museums. It occupies the former Episcopal Palace in the island's capital, a building that dates back to the 17th century. The museum opened on 1 July 1955, and its collections trace five centuries of the religious and artistic history of Madeira. What can you see at the museum? The collections include painting, sculpture, liturgical silver, and religious vestments and other textiles. The real draw, though, is the group of Flemish paintings from the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Visitors can pick out works from several different workshops, especially those of Antwerp. The altarpiece panels stand out for their quality and for a scale rarely seen in Flemish art displayed elsewhere in Europe. This is the most significant ensemble of Flemish art on the island and, as scholars often note, perhaps unmatched anywhere in Portugal. Among the pieces most often mentioned are altarpieces such as The Descent from the Cross attributed to Gérard David, a Saint James associated with Dieric Bouts, and The Adoration of the Magi by the Master of the Adoration of Machico. Why does Funchal have so many Flemish paintings? The answer is sugar. In the 15th and 16th centuries Madeira lived through a golden age of sugar cane cultivation, and its exports were among the mainstays of the Portuguese trading post in Antwerp. Trade ran both ways: paintings and sculptures from Flemish workshops often served as payment for sugar and were shipped to the island to furnish its churches and chapels. As a result, a small Atlantic island preserves works that have become rare in many European cities. Who should visit? Art lovers who want to see Flemish painting outside Europe's big capitals. Anyone curious about Madeira's history, including the sugar era and its cultural legacy. Visitors who enjoy silverwork, sculpture and liturgical textiles up close. Travellers looking for a calm break from sightseeing in Funchal, for example on a rainy day. Planning your visit The museum sits in central Funchal, so it pairs easily with a stroll through the old town. Most visitors spend one to two hours here, though painting enthusiasts may stay longer, since the Flemish panels reward slow looking. Check opening hours and ticket prices on the museum's official website before you go. Frequently asked questions When was the museum founded? It opened on 1 July 1955. Where is it located? In the former Episcopal Palace in Funchal, Madeira, in a 17th-century building. What makes the collection special? Its group of late 15th and early 16th century Flemish paintings, including works from Antwerp workshops, notable for quality and large size. Why are there Flemish paintings in Madeira? Sugar exports from the island to Antwerp were so important that artworks were sometimes used as payment. What else is on display? Sculpture, sacred silver, vestments and other textiles spanning five centuries of the island's history.

Museu Ibérico da Máscara e do Traje

Bragança

Museu Ibérico da Máscara e do Traje (the Iberian Museum of Masks and Costumes) is a small museum in Bragança, in north-eastern Portugal, devoted to the masks and costumes of the winter and Carnival festivities of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro and of Spain's Zamora province. It stands on the main street of the citadel, inside the walls of the old castle, and opened on 24 February 2007. What is this museum? The museum grew out of cross-border cooperation between the Municipality of Bragança and the Diputación de Zamora. Rather than a conventional display of objects behind glass, it works as an introduction to living traditions. Visitors meet about 50 characters, full of colour and meaning, who appear in villages on both sides of the border every winter. What will you see on each floor? The exhibition spreads over three levels: Ground floor – masks and costumes tied to the winter festivities of Trás-os-Montes. First floor – winter masks from Zamora province. Second floor – costumes worn during Carnival in both regions, plus space for artisans and temporary exhibitions. This layout makes it easy to compare Portuguese and Spanish customs and to notice how much they share. Why did these traditions survive? For centuries, Portugal's north-east was cut off from the rest of the country by mountain ranges. That isolation helped protect distinctive customs, including mask traditions. The museum, set within the castle walls of Bragança, lets you discover this world without having to wait for the winter festivals. How to plan your visit Because the museum is in the citadel, it pairs naturally with a walk along the medieval walls and the other sights of the old town. It suits a short visit of a few dozen minutes, especially if you are interested in folklore, ethnography and border culture. Check current opening hours and ticket prices on the museum's official website or at the Bragança tourist office before you go. Frequently asked questions Where is the museum? In the citadel of Bragança, on its main street, within the walls of the former castle. When did it open? On 24 February 2007. What does the collection cover? Winter and Carnival masks and costumes from Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro and from Spain's Zamora province. How many characters are on show? About 50, spread over three floors. Is there a link to Spain? Yes. It was created together with the Diputación de Zamora, and one floor is dedicated to masks from Zamora province. Who is it for? Anyone curious about folk traditions, Carnival and the culture of the Portuguese-Spanish borderlands. The displays are colourful and appealing even if you know nothing about the region.

Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro Museum

Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro Museum (Museu Bordalo Pinheiro) is a municipal museum in Lisbon, Portugal, devoted entirely to the life and work of the artist Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro (1846–1905). It sits in the Campo Grande area, in the north of the city, and is one of the places in the capital where satire, illustration and ceramics meet under one roof. Who was Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro? Bordalo Pinheiro was a prolific Portuguese artist. He worked in ceramics, sculpture, illustration and caricature, and he was also active in literature. He founded several periodicals in which he could publish his own illustrations and cartoons. His best-known creation is Zé Povinho, a rustic, working-class everyman who became an enduring symbol of the Portuguese people and a vehicle for social and political commentary. What can you see in the museum? The core of the collection is his graphic art: cartoons, drawings, illustrations and watercolours. Alongside the work of Rafael, the museum presents the graphic output of his son, Manuel Gustavo Bordalo Pinheiro. There is also an important ceramics collection and a specialised library. In total the holdings run to more than 13,000 pieces, so the museum is a serious research resource as well as a place for a relaxed visit. Visitors who come for caricature will find how sharply the artist observed the politics and society of his day. Those interested in decorative arts can follow his ceramic work, which shows the same humour and inventiveness as his drawings. How did the museum come about? In 1913 the architect Álvaro Augusto Machado (1874–1944) was commissioned to design a villa in Campo Grande, intended to house the collection. The museum opened to the public in 1916, at first using only the first floor. A remodelling in 1922 added new exhibition rooms. The founder wanted to leave the collection and the museum to the city of Lisbon, and this was fulfilled in 1924. After renovation works the museum reopened in 1926 under the ownership of Lisbon City Council, remodelled and enlarged on the ground floor. It has been a municipal institution ever since. Who is it for? The museum suits anyone curious about Portuguese cultural history, fans of political cartoons and illustration, and people who enjoy ceramics. It is also a good choice if you want to see a side of Lisbon beyond the historic centre, in a residential district with a park nearby. Frequently asked questions Where is the Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro Museum? In Lisbon, in the Campo Grande area, in a villa designed by Álvaro Augusto Machado. What is the museum about? It is entirely dedicated to Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro and shows his caricatures, drawings, illustrations, watercolours and ceramics, together with works by his son Manuel Gustavo. Who is Zé Povinho? A character created by Bordalo Pinheiro: a rustic, working-class Portuguese everyman used in his satirical cartoons. How big is the collection? More than 13,000 pieces, plus a specialised library. Is the museum public? Yes. It has been owned by Lisbon City Council since 1924 and is run as a municipal museum. Check current opening hours and ticket prices with the museum before your visit.

Museu João de Deus

Lisboa

Museu João de Deus in Lisbon is a house-museum with a bibliographic, pedagogical and artistic character, dedicated to the memory of the Portuguese educator João de Deus. It is a quiet, specialised stop for anyone curious about the history of education, books and early twentieth-century Portuguese culture, rather than a mass-tourism sight. Who was João de Deus, and why does he have a museum? João de Deus was a nineteenth-century Portuguese poet and educator. He is best known for the "Cartilha Maternal", a primer published in 1876 that set out an innovative method for teaching reading. It was later translated into several languages, and many of its ideas are still regarded as relevant. The museum was created as a tribute to his work. Who built the museum, and when did it open? The driving force was his son, João de Deus Ramos, who worked with a group of Republican idealists. The museum was solemnly inaugurated on 12 January 1917. The building was designed by Raul Lino, one of the best-known Portuguese architects of that era, and it is classified as a Monument of Public Interest, so the house itself is part of the visit. What can you see inside? The collection combines three strands: personal belongings, works of art and a historical library. The objects include items that belonged to both father and son. The library holds monographs, periodicals, photographs, manuscripts and cartographic material. It is particularly rich in the educational sciences: history of education, teacher training, child psychology, pedagogy and methods for introducing children to reading and writing. You will also find various reading and arithmetic teaching methods, runs of old newspapers and manuscript correspondence between prominent figures of the period. How to visit The museum is at Avenida Álvares Cabral 69, Lisbon (postcode 1250-017). Visits take place Monday to Friday, 9:30-13:00 and 14:00-17:00, by prior appointment by phone (213 960 854). Plan ahead rather than counting on a spontaneous walk-in, and check the current arrangements before you go, since access rules can change. Frequently asked questions Can I visit without booking? According to available information, visits are arranged by prior phone appointment, Monday to Friday. Who is it for? Anyone interested in the history of education, books, manuscripts and Raul Lino's architecture, as well as teachers and researchers in pedagogy. When did the museum open? On 12 January 1917. Who designed the building? Raul Lino. The building is classified as a Monument of Public Interest. What is João de Deus's best-known work? The "Cartilha Maternal" of 1876, a primer with a reading method that influenced Portuguese schooling and was translated into other languages.

Centro Português de Fotografia

Porto

Centro Português de Fotografia (the Portuguese Centre of Photography) is a photography museum and archive in the historic centre of Porto, housed in an 18th-century former prison and courthouse. It is a place where the architecture tells as much of a story as the pictures on the walls. What is this place? The centre is an archival and museum institution devoted to photography. It was established in 1997 by Portugal's Ministry of Culture. Its holdings include around sixty photographic collections, and it stages exhibitions of work by Portuguese and international photographers. Why is the building so special? The building dates from 1767 and served for roughly two centuries, until 1974, as a prison (the Cadeia da Relação) and court of appeal. 1974 is the year the country's long dictatorship ended, which gives the site extra symbolic weight for many visitors. The layout reflected the social order of the day. The poorest and most dangerous prisoners were held in dungeons in the basement, women were kept on the second floor, and people of rank were housed on the upper levels. The building also had rooms for the prison governor and a small chapel where the condemned received last rites before execution. How did a prison become a museum? Conversion work began around 2000, led by the acclaimed Portuguese architects Eduardo Souto Moura and Humberto Vieira. Former cells, workshops and courtyards were turned into exhibition galleries, and the whole building was fully restored. The austere character of the walls remains, in contrast with the images now shown inside. What can you see? The National Collection of Photography, a permanent display of Portuguese photography. A collection of historic cameras on the top floor, including spy cameras and classic Kodaks. Temporary exhibitions of work by photographers from Portugal and abroad. Opening hours According to OpenStreetMap data: Tuesday to Friday 10:00-18:00, Saturday and Sunday 15:00-19:00. On public holidays the hours are 15:00-19:00. It is closed on 1 January, Easter, 1 May and 25 December. Check the current schedule before you go, as hours can change. Frequently asked questions Where is Centro Português de Fotografia? In the historic centre of Porto, at roughly 41.1447 N, 8.6159 W. Was the building really a prison? Yes. It served as a prison and courthouse until 1974. Who designed the conversion? Eduardo Souto Moura and Humberto Vieira. Is it open on Mondays? Based on the available data, no Monday opening hours are listed. Is it worth visiting if I am not into photography? Yes. The history of the building, the former cells and the converted courtyards are interesting in their own right, whatever is on show.

Holocaust Museum of Oporto

Porto

The Holocaust Museum of Oporto (Portuguese: Museu do Holocausto do Porto) is a museum in Porto dedicated to the history of the Shoah. It opened on 20 January 2021 and is the first museum on the Iberian Peninsula devoted specifically to the Holocaust. What is the Holocaust Museum of Oporto? The museum was founded in 2021 and belongs to the network of Jewish institutions that have emerged in Porto in recent years. It sits within walking distance of the Kadoorie Mekor Haim Synagogue and the Jewish Museum of Porto, so all three can be combined in one visit to the city. What will I learn there? The exhibition follows the history, development and aftermath of the Holocaust in detail. Its main themes include: Jewish life before the Holocaust Nazism and Nazi expansion in Europe the ghettos refugees concentration, labour and extermination camps the Final Solution the death marches and liberation the postwar Jewish population and the foundation of the State of Israel the Righteous Among the Nations The museum also tells a story tied closely to Porto: that of the Jewish refugees who reached the city between 1940 and 1941, hoping to escape Europe and reach the Americas. Placing this local episode next to the wider history of persecution makes the topic more concrete for visitors, especially those who know Porto mainly as a port city and a wine destination. Why does it matter in Porto? Porto's Jewish community has a long and complicated history shaped by the Inquisition. The opening of the museum was widely noted as a milestone for that community, because it gave Portugal its first institution dedicated entirely to the Holocaust. For Portugal and Spain, where Jewish heritage is often approached through the medieval period and expulsion, the museum adds the twentieth-century perspective. Who is it for? The museum suits travellers interested in modern European history, families with older children, school groups and anyone exploring Jewish heritage in Portugal. The subject matter is serious, so plan for a reflective, unhurried visit rather than a quick stop between other sights. How to combine it with other sights Nearby you will find the Kadoorie Mekor Haim Synagogue, inaugurated in 1938. Its architecture is often described as Art Deco with Neo-Moorish elements, and it was named after the family of Sir Elly Kadoorie, a businessman and philanthropist from Shanghai whose family provided much of the funding. His wife, Lady Laura Mocatta Kadoorie, descended from Sephardic Jews from Portugal. The Jewish Museum of Porto completes the trio. Frequently asked questions When did the museum open? On 20 January 2021. Is it the only Holocaust museum in Portugal? It is the first on the Iberian Peninsula dedicated to the Holocaust. Is it near the synagogue? Yes, the Kadoorie Mekor Haim Synagogue is within walking distance. What period does it cover? From Jewish life before the war, through persecution and the camps, to liberation and the postwar years. Does it mention Porto's own history? Yes, it presents the story of refugees who arrived in Porto in 1940-1941. Check the opening hours and booking rules on the official website of the Jewish Community of Porto before you go.

Museu do Papel Moeda

Porto

Museu do Papel Moeda in Porto is a museum of paper money run by a private foundation and located on Avenida da Boavista, opposite the Parque da Cidade city park. It belongs to the Fundação Dr. António Cupertino de Miranda and shares its premises with a congress and exhibition centre. It suits anyone who enjoys small, offbeat museums and economic history. What can you see at Museu do Papel Moeda? The visit is built around two permanent exhibitions. The first tells the story of paper money in Portugal. It features an important collection of banknotes in which every issue of the Banco de Portugal and of the Banco Nacional Ultramarino, the bank that issued currency for Portugal's overseas territories, is represented. The holdings also include other kinds of paper currency and notes from various banking institutions, among them the issuing banks of northern Portugal and the Banco de Lisboa. The second exhibition links two seemingly distant themes: money and transport. It is based on a collection of more than 5,000 miniature cars, complemented by models of boats, trains and aeroplanes. This makes the museum more engaging for children, and for visitors who find banknotes alone a dry subject. How are the collections presented? The displays are supported by films, scale models, viewmasters (stereoscopic slide viewers) and multimedia kiosks, so the history of money is more than a row of cases filled with notes. Are guided visits available? Yes. The museum offers guided visits for schools, seniors, families and people with special needs. If you are travelling with a group, ask about them in advance. Where is it and how do you plan a visit? The foundation stands on Avenida da Boavista, one of the main arteries of western Porto, opposite Parque da Cidade. That makes it easy to combine the museum with a walk in the largest city park. There is private parking on site, along with a restaurant open daily except Sundays. Opening hours and ticket prices change, so check the foundation's official channels or a Porto tourist office before you go. Frequently asked questions Is it a state museum? No. It is a private cultural institution run by the foundation named after Dr. António Cupertino de Miranda. How long does a visit take? At a relaxed pace about an hour is usually enough, though numismatics and model fans may stay longer. Is it good for children? Yes, mainly thanks to the miniature cars, boats, trains and aeroplanes, and the multimedia kiosks. Is there parking? Yes, the foundation has private parking. Can you eat nearby? A restaurant operates on the foundation's grounds, open every day except Sunday. Who is it for? People interested in the history of money, banking and the Portuguese economy, collectors, and families looking for a rainy-day alternative to walking around Porto. It pairs well with a day around Boavista and the Atlantic side of the city, away from the tourist crowds of Ribeira.

Museu Municipal de Penafiel

Penafiel

Museu Municipal de Penafiel is the town museum of Penafiel, in northern Portugal near Porto. Its holdings focus on archaeology, ethnography and local history, and the renovated townhouse that shelters them is a sight in its own right. How did the Penafiel museum begin? The museum was established in 1948. It first operated next to the town library in the Barão do Calvário mansion, under Abílio Miranda, its first director, whose determination is credited with getting it started. Collecting had actually begun in the late nineteenth century, well before the institution was formalised. Where is it, and what is the building like? Since 24 March 2009 the museum has occupied the Pereira do Lago mansion, in the middle of Penafiel's historic and commercial centre. The architects Fernando Távora and Bernardo Távora carried out the restoration. Its central position makes it easy to pair a visit with a stroll through the old town. What can you see in the collections? Archaeology Much of the archaeological material comes from excavations at the Castro de Monte Mozinho, a fortified hilltop settlement near Penafiel, along with several Roman-era burial grounds. A highlight is the founding document of São Pedro da Lardosa, dated 882. The Colcha Municipal Another standout is the so-called Colcha Municipal, an eighteenth-century Indo-Portuguese textile bedcover made of silk embroidered with gold. Ethnography The ethnographic collection grew mostly through donations and rescue operations for objects at risk of being lost. It records farming, traditional trades, fishing and other former livelihoods of the region. Has the museum won any awards? Yes. In 2009, the year it moved into its new home, it was named Best Portuguese Museum by the Portuguese Association of Museology (Associação Portuguesa de Museologia). Who will enjoy it? Visitors curious about northern Portugal's past, ancient settlement and everyday life will find it rewarding. It gives context to nearby archaeological sites such as Monte Mozinho and fits well into a wider tour of the region, including the Romanesque Route (Rota do Românico). Frequently asked questions When was the museum founded? In 1948, with Abílio Miranda as first director. Where is it? In the Pereira do Lago mansion in central Penafiel, since 2009. Who designed the building's renovation? Fernando Távora and Bernardo Távora. What are the main collections? Archaeology, ethnography and objects tied to local history. Which document is especially valuable? The 882 founding document of São Pedro da Lardosa. Has it won awards? Yes, Best Portuguese Museum in 2009. Check the museum's official website for current opening hours and ticket prices before you go.