top of page
Writer's pictureChristine Childress

Off-The-Beaten-Path in Portugal: Museu Nacional do Azulejo


18th-century panel

Discover the splendid history and artistry of decorative ceramic tiles known as Azulejos, ubiquitous in Portuguese design, at this standout Lisbon museum.


Why Go: Immersive exhibits covering five centuries of Azulejo development and techniques.


For Those Who: Appreciate Portuguese culture and history, love ceramic arts, enjoy judging tile design complexity and evolution.



Exterior of the Museu


Spanning the overwhelmingly extensive Palace of Madre de Deus convent, this museum dedicated to Azulejos offers insight into Portugal’s decorative tilework spanning five centuries. Wander among countless hand-painted, glazed patterns and tabla depicting everything from saints, royalty, and seascapes to abstract motifs.


Learn about early Moorish influence on geometric designs, evolutions in painting and glazing methods, and fabulist themes. See entire church nave walls and rooms lavishly covered in Azulejos. Study them up close to admire the intricate brushwork in vibrant blues, yellows, and greens. Don’t miss the whimsical Lisbon cityscape panel from around 1700.


A must-see for appreciating omnipresent Azulejos and how their stories and craftsmanship evolved over centuries, shaped by history. Prepare to be overwhelmed by beauty.


What You Need to Know: Located in Madre de Deus convent in Lisbon. Open 10am-6pm except Tuesdays. Admission around €5.


1 view0 comments

Comentarios


bottom of page