Audio GuideCarmo Archaeological Museum

Museu Arqueológico do Carmo

Ruined Gothic church destroyed by an earthquake in 1755, with an evocative roofless nave & museum.

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Welcome to the Museu Arqueológico do Carmo, located among the enchanting ruins of the Carmo Convent in Lisbon. Founded in thirteen ninety by the esteemed Nuno Álvares Pereira, this magnificent Gothic structure once stood tall on a hill near São Jorge Castle, rivaling Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. In seventeen fifty-five, a powerful earthquake struck the city, severely damaging the convent and leaving its roof in ruins. Instead of rebuilding, nineteenth-century architects began neo-Gothic restoration, but the work was halted, preserving the open nave and creating a striking memorial of the earthquake.

In eighteen sixty-four, the convent was transformed into Portugal’s first archaeological museum, dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s heritage. Today, the museum boasts a diverse collection spanning from the Paleolithic era to the neo-Gothic period. Visitors can admire the tomb of King Ferdinand the First, intricate Roman tombs with detailed reliefs, Visigothic pillars, South American mummies, and ancient coins. As a national monument since nineteen hundred and eight, the Museu Arqueológico do Carmo plays a vital role in preserving Portuguese history and culture.

Walking through the roofless nave, you can feel the blend of history and artistry that makes this museum unique. Whether you are passionate about history or simply seeking a memorable experience, the Museu Arqueológico do Carmo offers a captivating glimpse into Portugal’s rich past. Come explore its timeless beauty and discover the stories that have shaped this remarkable city.

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