Audio GuideNational Tile Museum

Welcome to the National Tile Museum, known in Portuguese as the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, located in Lisbon's historic Madre de Deus monastery, which was established in fifteen oh nine by Queen Leonor. This museum houses a magnificent collection of azulejos, the exquisite ceramic tiles that have been an integral part of Portuguese culture and architecture for over five hundred years. As you wander through the museum, you'll discover how azulejos have decorated buildings both inside and out, narrating tales of history, mythology, and day-to-day life.

Sylvie Rousseau

One of the museum's highlights is the Grande Panorama de Lisboa, a breathtaking tile panel showcasing Lisbon prior to the great earthquake of seventeen fifty-five. This extraordinary artwork spans over twenty-three metres, offering a rare insight into the city's past. The former convent is a wonder itself, featuring classical and baroque architectural elements, such as a chapel with lavish gold decorations and remarkable paintings.

Rui Pedro da Costa Tirá

Inside the museum, you'll learn about the various techniques used to create azulejos, from the vibrant Mudéjar style introduced during Moorish times to the lively majolica that came from Italy. The museum also illustrates how the catastrophic earthquake influenced art and architecture, leading to the widespread use of azulejos in the reconstruction process.

Tony Zuccaro

The collection is carefully preserved and restored, ensuring that these artistic tiles maintain their brilliance for generations to come. Visitors can enjoy guided tours and temporary exhibitions that showcase different aspects of tile artistry. The museum is easily reachable from major transport links, making it an essential destination for anyone keen to explore the rich cultural heritage of Portugal.

Whether you're intrigued by art, history, or architecture, the National Tile Museum offers an absorbing and sensory experience through Portugal's distinctive tile tradition. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, it attracts thousands of visitors each year, inviting you to delve into the colourful and intricate world of azulejos.