National Tile Museum (Lisbon)
Accommodations nearby
Choose your dates and compare places to stay near your visit.
We may earn a commission when you book through this map, at no extra cost to you.
Is the sun shining here now?
One tap helps everyone else. Sign in to earn 2 points.
Be the first to report the weather here!
Reports in the last 3 hours: Sun: · Partly: · Rain:
National Tile Museum
The National Tile Museum, located at Rua da Madre de Deus 4, 1900-312 Lisbon, Portugal, is one of the country's most important cultural institutions, dedicated to the preservation, study, and exhibition of tiles. This unique museum is situated in the former Convent of Madre de Deus, founded in 1509 by Queen D. Leonor, a notable example of Manueline and Baroque architecture.
History and Location
The National Tile Museum was founded in 1965 and is housed in the former Convent of Madre de Deus, a historic building dating back to the 16th century. This convent features Manueline and Baroque architecture, enriched by the adjacent Madre de Deus Church, with an interior richly decorated with gilded woodwork and historical tiles.
Collection
The museum's collection spans five centuries of tile production, from the earliest examples of the 15th century to contemporary creations. The diversity of the collection includes tiles from various regions of Portugal and other countries, reflecting cultural exchange over the centuries. Among the notable pieces is the enormous tile panel depicting Lisbon before the 1755 earthquake, one of the museum's most iconic pieces.
Exhibitions and Activities
In addition to the permanent exhibition, the museum regularly organizes temporary exhibitions that explore different aspects of tile art and its evolution. The museum also offers a variety of educational activities, including workshops, guided tours, and programs for schools, promoting knowledge and appreciation of tiles. Research projects on the history and conservation of tiles are also developed at the museum.
Architecture and Design
The museum building itself is a point of interest, with its stunning architecture and the adjacent Madre de Deus Church, decorated with gilded woodwork and historical tiles. The Chapel of Saint Anthony, within the museum, is another attraction with beautiful tiles and wooden panels.
Cultural Importance
The National Tile Museum plays a crucial role in preserving one of Portugal's most distinctive art forms. In addition to preservation, the museum educates the public about the importance of tiles in Portuguese culture and history, highlighting their evolution and the different styles and techniques used over the centuries. Therefore, the National Tile Museum is a must-visit for those who wish to understand and appreciate the rich tradition of tiles in Portugal, as well as the history and culture they represent.
What to Visit in Lisbon Municipality
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Among the many places to explore are the Belém Tower, a 16th-century fortress; the Jerónimos Monastery, a spectacular example of Manueline architecture; and the São Jorge Castle, with its stunning views over the city and the Tagus River. In addition, the Alfama district offers an authentic cultural experience with its narrow streets and picturesque houses. The vibrant Bairro Alto and Chiado are ideal for those seeking lively nightlife and a mix of shops and cafes. Finally, the Praça do Comércio and the Parque das Nações are modern and historic areas that complete Lisbon's rich cultural tapestry.
Sobre Lisboa
Lisbon unfolds between its hills and the River Tagus, through cobbled streets, tiled façades and viewpoints overlooking the rooftops. Portugal’s capital invites you to pair its major monuments with the small pleasures of neighbourhood life: coffee at an outdoor table, an unhurried wander down a side street or a quiet moment by the river.
Neighbourhoods with different stories
In Alfama and Mouraria, narrow lanes and stairways invite exploration on foot. Lisbon Cathedral and São Jorge Castle offer an introduction to the old city, while the Portas do Sol viewpoint looks out over Alfama and the Tagus. For another perspective, head uphill to Graça and the Senhora do Monte viewpoint.
In Baixa Pombalina, rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake, the orderly street grid contrasts with the hillside neighbourhoods. Walk from Rossio to Praça do Comércio along Rua Augusta, then continue beside the river at Ribeira das Naus. Above Baixa, Chiado brings together bookshops, theatres and cafés; after dark, Bairro Alto is one of the city’s liveliest areas.
Belém and the waterfront
Set aside time for Belém, where the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower form a UNESCO World Heritage site. Combine the historic sights with a waterfront stroll and a stop for a pastel de Belém custard tart. To the east, Parque das Nações reveals another side of the capital, shaped by the urban transformation for Expo 98, contemporary architecture and waterside promenades.
Local flavours and time to wander
At the table, explore salt cod dishes, petiscos — small dishes to share — and pastéis de nata custard tarts. Fado offers another way into Lisbon’s culture, particularly in Alfama and Mouraria.
Plan your visit around neighbouring areas and allow time for hills and steps. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobbled streets and combine walking with public transport for longer journeys. Between monuments, leave room for the moments that need no itinerary: watching the river, discovering a square or lingering at a viewpoint.
User Reviews
Write a Review
No reviews yet. Be the first to review!
Recommend National Tile Museum (Lisbon)
Tip a friend
Share on WhatsAppRelated articles
TikTok is becoming Gen Z's travel guide
A TUI Musement study found that 48% of Gen Z travellers use TikTok for travel inspiration, showing how short videos now...
TikTok GO could make travel booking part of the scroll
TikTok GO brings hotels, tours and attractions into the app, turning travel inspiration into bookable moments and changi...
Travel mistakes experienced travellers still make
A Global Rescue survey says overpacking remains the biggest travel mistake, followed by tight connections, overloaded it...
