The Museu da Marinha in Lisbon is a fascinating tribute to Portugal’s maritime legacy, located in the west wing of the Jerónimos Monastery. Established in 1962, it showcases an extensive collection of model ships, navigational instruments, and artifacts from Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Visitors can admire royal barges, astrolabes, and a replica of Vasco da Gama’s caravel, offering insight into the country’s seafaring achievements. The museum also features the plane used in the first South Atlantic crossing by Portuguese aviators in 1922. Interactive exhibits and detailed displays bring Portugal’s naval history to life, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Easily accessible by train or tram, the museum is open daily except for major holidays, with admission starting at €6.50. Discounts are available with the Lisboa Card.
Lisbon PortugalMuseu da Marinha (Maritime Museum) is located at Praça do Império, 1400-206 Lisboa, in the heart of Lisbon’s Belém district, an area steeped in Portugal’s age of exploration and maritime heritage. The museum occupies part of the majestic Jerónimos Monastery, specifically its neo-Manueline western wing, and is easily accessible by public transport, including the number 15 tram from central Lisbon or the Cascais train line, which stops at Belém station just a short walk away. The surrounding area is one of Lisbon’s most visitor-rich zones, home to a cluster of iconic attractions. Directly next to the museum is the National Archaeology Museum, and just across the square stands the impressive Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its intricate Manueline architecture and historical significance. A short stroll leads to the Monument to the Discoveries, which commemorates Portugal’s pioneering explorers and offers panoramic views from its observation deck, while the riverfront promenade provides a scenic route for leisurely walks along the Tagus River. Nearby, the Belém Tower, another UNESCO site and symbol of Portugal’s maritime past, is within easy walking distance, as is the modern Belém Cultural Centre, which houses contemporary art exhibitions and offers a rooftop terrace with river views. atmosphere.