Top 10 Art Museums and Galleries in Lisbon
Lisbon is a city that is rich in culture and history, and it has a vibrant and diverse art scene that is definitely worth exploring. From contemporary galleries to more traditional art spaces, Lisbon has something for everyone. If you're an art enthusiast, you'll be delighted to know that the city is home to numerous galleries that showcase the works of local and international artists.
In this article, I will be exploring the top 10 art museums and galleries in Lisbon. For other other ideas on what to see and do in Lisbon, read here.
I have included opening times for each gallery that are correct at the time of writing this article, but please check the latest information before your visit.
Table of Contents
2. MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology
4. Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea
1. Museu Coleção Berardo
Located in the vibrant Belém district of Lisbon, the Museu Coleção Berardo is a must-visit destination for contemporary art lovers. The museum's collection includes over 1,000 works of art by some of the most influential contemporary artists from around the world.
Essential Information
Before I explore the Museu Coleção Berardo's impressive collection, here are some practical details you should know:
Entry fees: €5 for adults
Address: Museu Coleção Berardo, Praça do Império, 1449-003 Lisbon
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 7pm;
Exploring Museu Coleção Berardo
This modern and contemporary art museum houses a breathtaking collection of works from the 20th century to the present day, showcasing the most significant artistic movements of our time.
Inside you will be transported through history as you explore the works of iconic artists such as Pablo Picasso, Marcel Duchamp, Piet Mondrian, Joan Miró, Francis Bacon, Andy Warhol, Donald Judd, Bruce Nauman, and Cindy Sherman, among many others. Their works are thoughtfully presented within the framework of the artistic movements that defined them, taking you on a fascinating journey through the evolution of art.
Not only will you be able to admire the permanent exhibition of the Berardo Collection, but you'll also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a vast array of temporary exhibitions, featuring works by artists from diverse cultural backgrounds and contexts. Through a multitude of expressions, they have all played a vital role in shaping the art history of the last century.
Beyond the Museu Coleção Berardo's collection, the museum is located in the iconic Belém neighbourhood, a cultural centre in Lisbon that features a variety of other museums and attractions such as Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology and the Belem Tower.
2. MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology
Also located in Lisbon’s Belém neighbourhood, the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) is one of Lisbon's most exciting cultural destinations. The museum's contemporary exhibitions and innovative architecture attracts visitors from around the world.
Essential Information
Before we explore the MAAT, here are some practical details you should know:
Entry fees: €9 for adults, €6 for students and seniors, children under 12 go free.
Address: Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) , Av. Brasília, Central Tejo, 1300-598 Lisbon
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 7pm; closed on Mondays and some public holidays
Exploring the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT)
MAAT is known for its dynamic and thought-provoking exhibitions that explore the intersections of art, architecture, and technology.
MAAT has an extensive collection of contemporary Portuguese artists and diverse forms of artistic creation, including painting, photography, video, and installation. The collection is a continuously evolving one, comprising approximately 2,400 works by over 330 artists, and is updated yearly with new acquisitions.
The collection showcases the dynamic history of Portuguese art and starts with works from artists such as Jorge Pinheiro, Ângelo de Sousa, and Lourdes de Castro from the 1960s, and explores the emergence of civil rights movements, the sexual revolution, and counterculture protests, as well as the rise of Pop Art, Minimalism, and Conceptual Art.
The collection covers several decades and includes works from renowned artists such as Jorge Martins, Alberto Carneiro and Helena Almeida, to more recent generations, such as João Maria Gusmão + Pedro Paiva, and André Romão.
In addition to the museum's exhibitions, MAAT's architecture is also a work of art. Designed by the renowned architect Amanda Levete, the building's sweeping curves and reflective surfaces create a sense of movement and lightness. The museum also includes a rooftop terrace, which offers panoramic views of the Tagus River and the city skyline.
3. Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
If you're interested in exploring one of the most significant collections of art in Portugal, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum in Lisbon is a destination you won't want to miss. This museum is home to an extensive collection of art and artifacts that span thousands of years.
Essential Information
Before we delve into the museum's impressive collection, here are some practical details you should know:
Entry fees: €10 for adults, €5 for seniors and students, free for children under 12
Address: Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, Av. de Berna, 45A, 1067-001 Lisbon
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 10am to 5.30pm (closed on Tuesdays)
Exploring Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is known for its extensive collection of art and artifacts from different periods and cultures, from Ancient Egypt to contemporary art.
The museum's collection includes paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and textiles, amongst others, providing a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of different regions and civilizations.
One of the museum's most significant holdings is its collection of Islamic art, which includes works from the 7th to the 19th centuries, originating from different regions such as Persia, Turkey, and India. The museum's collection also includes works by European artists such as Rembrandt, Claude Monet, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir.
The museum's collections are organized around themes such as Ancient Egypt, Islamic Art, European Art, and Oriental Art, among others. Highlights include the 6th-century BC Egyptian sarcophagus of Psusennes I, and the 16th-century Persian carpet “Hunting Scene”.
Beyond the artworks themselves, the museum is housed in a modernist building surrounded by beautiful gardens, providing a unique setting for the collection. The parkland itself is a lovely spot in Lisbon in which to relax.
4. MNAC - Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea
If you are a lover of contemporary art and find yourself in Lisbon, then check out the Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea (MNAC). The museum boasts an extensive collection of Portuguese contemporary art.
Essential Information
Before embarking on your visit to the Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea, it is worth being aware of the following information:
Entry Fees: The museum has a very affordable entry fee, with adult tickets priced at €4.50 and discounts for students, seniors, and children under the age of 12 go free.
Opening Hours: MNAC is open to visitors from Tuesday to Friday, from 10am to 6pm (Closed between 1pm and 2pm), Saturday and Sunday 10am to 6pm (Closed between 2pm and 3pm). The museum is closed on Mondays and on public holidays.
Address: Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea, Rua Serpa Pinto, 4, 1200-444 Lisbon.
Getting There: If you are coming from the centre of Lisbon, the museum is just a short walk from the Baixa-Chiado metro station. There are also several bus lines that stop nearby.
Exploring Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea
The museum’s collection showcases different artistic movements such as Romanticism, Naturalism, Symbolism, Expressionism, Surrealism, and Abstract Art.
One of the highlights of the Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea is its impressive collection of Portuguese contemporary art. The collection displays works of well-known Portuguese artists such as Tomás da Anunciação, Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, Jorge Vieira, Helena Almeida, and Julião Sarmento, amongst others.
Some themes addressed in the collection include the natural environment, the human figure, abstraction, and political and social criticism.
The Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea has hosted several famous exhibitions over the years that have attracted visitors from all over the world.
5. Galeria 111
Galeria 111 is located in the University of Lisbon and is well worth a visit for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the Portuguese contemporary art scene.
Essential Information
Before I provide information about what makes Galeria 111 so special, let's cover some practical information that every visitor should know:
Entry fees: Admission to Galeria 111 is free of charge.
Opening hours: The gallery is open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am to 7pm.
Address: Galeria 111, R. Dr. João Soares 5B, 1600-060 Lisbon.
Exploring Galeria 111
Founded in 1964, Galeria 111 has become one of the most influential art galleries in Lisbon, showcasing a broad range of contemporary art exhibitions by both established and emerging artists. The gallery's mission is to promote Portuguese contemporary artists both nationally and internationally, making it a crucial institution for the development and recognition of the country's art scene.
Galeria 111 features a broad range of contemporary art collections, including painting, sculpture, video, installation, and photography.
Visitors can expect to encounter works by renowned Portuguese contemporary artists such as Lourdes Castro, Marcia Xavier Jorge and Pedro Ah Passion. The gallery also features exhibitions by international artists, creating a dynamic and diverse art scene that attracts visitors from around the world.
6. Museu De Lisboa
The Museu De Lisboa (Museum of Lisbon) is a fascinating museum that explores the history and culture of Lisbon. The museum's collections provide a comprehensive overview of Lisbon's past, from its early days as a Roman settlement to its modern-day culture.
The museum is actually housed in five separate buildings:
Palácio Pimenta
Teatro Romano
Santo António
Torreão Poente and
Casa dos Bicos
Essential Information
Entry fees: €6 for adults, €3 for seniors and students, free for children under 12
Address: The museum is spread across several locations in Lisbon, including the Santo António Church, the Palácio Pimenta, and the Casa dos Bicos. Check the museum's website for specific addresses and opening hours.
Opening hours: Vary by location, check the museum's website for specific opening hours.
Exploring Lisbon Museum
The Museu De Lisboa is known for its collections that explore the history and culture of Lisbon.
One of the most significant collections in the museum is its Roman collection, which includes artifacts such as mosaics, statues, and pottery, providing a glimpse into Lisbon's early days as a Roman settlement. The museum's collections also explore Lisbon's role in the Age of Discoveries, highlighting the city's importance as a center of exploration and trade.
While the Museu De Lisboa is primarily a history museum, it does include several collections of art and decorative arts. The museum's collection includes works by Portuguese artists such as José Malhoa and Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, providing a glimpse into Lisbon's artistic heritage.
Beyond the museum's collections, the buildings that house the museum are also significant historical landmarks. For example, the Casa dos Bicos, which houses part of the museum's collection, is a 16th-century building with a unique façade covered in diamond-shaped stones.
7. Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga
To immerse yourself in Portuguese art and culture, visit Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga. The Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga is the national art gallery of Portugal and is home to an extensive collection of artworks and artifacts that span the history of Portuguese art, from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.
Essential Information
Here are some practical details you should know:
Entry fees: €6 for adults,
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm
Exploring Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga
The Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga is known for its extensive collection of Portuguese art, which spans over six centuries. The museum's collection includes paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and textiles, all of which provide a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of Portugal.
The collection includes masterpieces from different periods and styles, providing a comprehensive overview of Portuguese art history. A highlight is the 16th-century painting “Panels of St. Vincent” by Nuno Gonçalves.
The Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Portugal’s artistic history.
Beyond the artworks themselves, the museum is housed in a stunning building located along the Tagus River. The museum's grounds also include a beautiful garden, which is a perfect place to relax and soak up the atmosphere after exploring the galleries.
8. Galeria Belo-Galsterer
Galeria Belo-Galsterer is an excellent contemporary art gallery in Lisbon, and well worth a visit.
Essential Information
Entry fees: Free admission
Address: Galeria Belo-Galsterer, Rua Castilho 71, 1250-068 Lisbon
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 2pm to 7pm
Exploring Galeria Belo-Galsterer
Galeria Belo-Galsterer is a contemporary art gallery in Lisbon that showcases some of the best Portuguese contemporary artists. The gallery was founded by Ana Belo-Galsterer and specialises in promoting contemporary Portuguese art to the world.
The art collections at Galeria Belo-Galsterer are simply stunning. The gallery has a diverse collection of works from established national and international artists to emerging artists. The collection includes contemporary paintings, sculptures, installations, and photographs.
9. Galeria Francisco Fino
Galeria Francisco Fino is a hidden gem that showcases some of the best contemporary art in Lisbon.
Essential Information
Entry fees: Free admission
Address: Galeria Francisco Fino, Rua Capitão Leitão 76C, 1950-050 Lisbon
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday from 12pm to 7pm and Saturdays from 2pm to 7pm
Exploring Galeria Francisco Fino
Galeria Francisco Fino is a contemporary art gallery that is renowned for showcasing Portuguese contemporary artists.
The gallery first opened in 2012, and has been at its current home since 2017. They have various partnerships and links with a diverse range of institutions and events. This has allowed the gallery to represent artists of various nationalities. They have positioned themselves as a space where artists, curators and other agents in the artistic field come together.
This approach has resulted in a vibrant gallery space that displays ground breaking exhibitions and installations.
10. Galeria Vera Cortês
Galeria Vera Cortês showcases some of the most talented and innovative artists from Portugal and beyond.
Essential Information
Entry fees: Free admission
Address: Galeria Vera Cortês, Rua João Saraiva 16, 1700-250 Lisbon
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday from 2pm to 7pm and Saturdays from 10am to 7pm (Closed 1pm to 2pm)
Exploring Galeria Vera Cortês
Galeria Vera Cortês is one of the most renowned contemporary art galleries in Lisbon. The gallery has a reputation for showcasing some of the most exciting contemporary artists, both from Portugal and around the world. The gallery's exhibitions are always innovative and thought-provoking, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary art.
The gallery is known for featuring artists from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures, making it a destination for anyone interested in exploring the diversity of contemporary art.
Galeria Vera Cortês is more than just a gallery; it's an experience. The gallery's commitment to showcasing emerging artists and promoting diverse perspectives is what sets it apart. The exhibitions are fresh, exciting, and thought-provoking.
Other places to see art in Lisbon
Some other places to view art in Lisbon include:
Lisbon's annual art fair, ARCOlisboa, attracts international galleries and collectors to the city to discover the latest developments in contemporary art.
The city also hosts several smaller art fairs and festivals throughout the year, such as the Lisbon International Contemporary Exhibition (ECLIPSE) and the Lisbon Art Weekend.
Street art is also a prominent feature of Lisbon's contemporary art scene, with several large-scale murals and installations scattered throughout the city. For more about street art in the Alfama District of Lisbon, read here or the art installations of Parques das Nacoes, read here.
I hope you have found my list of museums and galleries in Lisbon useful. If you have visited any of these places, I would love to hear your thoughts or if you feel one of your favourites is missing from the list, please email me and let me know at sarahransomeart@gmail.com.
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