The Gulbenkian Museum’s collection is made up of around 6,000 artefacts of ancient civilisations. Spot Greek vases, ancient coins and Roman glass alongside eastern Islamic tiles from the country’s Moorish age.
Choose from one of two circuits when browsing the museum’s permanent exhibits, with each split into chronological or geographical order. The first exhibit area displays Egyptian, Greco-Roman, Mesopotamian and Eastern Islamic ceramics and craftwork. The second displays European art with books, sculptures and paintings representing the best of the continent’s works.
In the decorative arts section, see intricate woven tapestries, lacquered bookcases, ornate brass clocks and pale pottery. The Art of the Book is a popular exhibit, displaying the writings, illustrations and elaborate book covers of ancient manuscripts. These books are drawn from Flemish, French, Dutch, English, Italian and German backgrounds and date back as far as the 13th century.
Take at least 2 hours to browse the exhibits. For an informative experience, rent an audio guide and hear detailed information that contextualises each artwork. On your way out, pick up an artistic trinket at the gift shop. Visitors in October though June can attend a number of summer concerts recitals and ballet performances held at the museum. Check the event schedule online.
Enjoy a meal at the museum cafeteria. Alternatively, find a delicious seafood platter at one of many restaurants in the area.
The Gulbenkian Museum is located in Lisbon’s city centre, near Commerce Square. Get there using frequent bus and tram routes, or walk there through the lively city streets.
The museum is open every day except for Monday. It is also closed on New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, May 1 and Christmas Day. There is an admission fee, although children under 12 get in free. Best visiting is on Sunday when Lisbon’s Museum Day policy allows free entry for the general public, though these days are obviously more crowded.
