Lisbon, Portugal
Founded in 1884, the National Musuem of Ancient Art is located near the Tagus River. The Museum houses Portugal’s most prized art collection, including Portugese sculptures and paintings from the 13th-19th centuries. European paintings, textiles and ceramics, and art treasures from former colonies are also on display at the museum.The National Musuem of Ancient Art is located in a 17th-century palace in the district of Chiado in Lisbon. Paintings include works by master Portugese painters such as Gregorio Lopes, Francisco Vieira Lusitano, Pedro Alexandrino and Domingos Antonio Sequeira. Featured European painters include Van der Goes, Piero della Francesca, Hieronymus Bosch, Rigault and Hans Holbein.
The decorative arts include nearly 3200 pieces of gold work by Portugese and French artists from the 12th-19th centuries; 1200 pieces of jewellry made for the Portugese nobility; 1700 pieces of furniture from Portugal; 7500 ceramic pieces and 4500 textile works. 16th century Japanese screens depict the Portugese arriving in Japan. For the Japanese, it was their first contact with Europeans and they were left fascinated.
Visitors who love art and have lots of time can take in all of the exhibits at their leisure, however the museum also suggests a quick tour, for those who want to have a fast look, and see the “top ten” exhibits. The musuem is the most important that there is in Portugal as well as being among the most important in Europe, as well!
Times:
Tue 2pm-6pm, Wed-Sun 10am-6pm
Cost:
€3; concessions €1.50; under-14s free
