Visit an Amazing Art Collection at The Gulbenkian Museum, Lisbon

Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation

One of the 20th century’s wealthiest men, Armenian oil magnate Calouste Gulbenkian, spent years gathering the most amazing art collection and left it to his adopted home Portugal. You can visit his collection at the Gulbenkian Museum Lisbon

It is a marvellous experience to spend time here alone, with friends or family. The Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, Lisbon consists of; the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum head office, an art library, auditorium, café and shops, the Modern Art Centre and an open-air auditorium.

You should spend at least two hours here. Start with the museum, a priceless collection and the quality is magnificent. There are six thousand pieces in this eclectic collection ranging from East to West  and dating from antiquity to the 20th century. English notes are available throughout and the staff are very helpful.

Calouste Gulbenkian’s paintings include works by Rogier Van de Wedyen, Vittore Carpaccio, Sir Anthony Van Dyck, Rembrandt and Monet to name but a few.

 

 

RELATED: National Coach Museum – Be Transported in Time

 

René Lalique Collection

The collection of works by René Lalique is considered unique in the world. Lalique is famous for his use of glass, enamel, ivory, gold and semi-precious stones to create exquisite art nouveau jewellery.

Don’t miss the Modern Art Centre opened in 1983 to feature modern and contemporary Portuguese artists. There is a cafeteria downstairs for a drink or light meal.

 

 

RELATED: The Hidden Gems of Lisbon’s Campo de Ourique

 

 

The gardens are also worth a visit and it’s free of charge. They are large covering an area of 9 hectares, carefully landscaped and home to a wide variety of flora. There is a reasonably priced self-service restaurant near the large garden lake or bring a picnic to enjoy in the gardens.

One of my favourite Lisbon experiences. Every time I go back I discover something different in this oasis of art and tranquility. I hope this post has inspired you to visit and if you do,  please come back and share your thoughts in the comments below.

 

Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, Lisbon

Av. de Berna 45A

Tel: + 351 217 823 000

How to get there:

Very easy access by public

Underground: S. Sebastião ( blue and red lines)

Buses: 716, 718, 742, 746, 756.

 

Open from 10am-6pm (last admission 5.30pm)

Closed on Tuesdays and January 1st, Easter Sunday, May 1st,  December 24th & 25th.

Garden: every day, open until sunset.

 

 

Share this post on

hotels in chiado lisbon
Lisbon Area

Best Hotels in Chiado Lisbon in 2024

Discover the vibrant cosmopolitan neighbourhood of Chiado in Lisbon, known for its grand squares, top-notch shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re searching for luxury

Read More »

Portugal Exposure FREE Guides

Destinations

We have complied this Porto guide to help you get the most out of your trip to Porto. We love Porto, we lived there for years and return frequently to visit as holidaymakers. Porto is a fantastic destination to visit alone, with family or friends.

READ MORE

The Portuguese capital is constantly recognised as one of the greatest cities in the world. Our Lisbon travel guide is packed with world-class art museums, a booming restaurant scene, and hotels for every taste. Use our Lisbon travel guide to help you plan the best trip ever.

READ MORE

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

READ MORE