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The Machado de Castro National Museum, located in the historic city of Coimbra, Portugal, is one of the country’s most important art and archaeological museums. Named after Joaquim Machado de Castro, one of Portugal’s greatest sculptors, the museum houses an extensive collection of Portuguese art spanning several centuries, with a special focus on sculpture, painting, and decorative arts. Set within the former Bishop’s Palace, the museum is renowned not only for its collections but also for the stunning architecture and archaeological remains beneath the building, including a Roman cryptoporticus. It provides visitors with a fascinating journey through Portuguese history and culture.
The Machado de Castro National Museum is situated in Coimbra’s city center, making it easily accessible:
Coimbra experiences a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. The best visiting months for the Machado de Castro Museum are spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October), when the weather is pleasant and conducive for walking around the city.
Summers can be hot with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters are generally mild but rainy. Visiting the museum during peak summer might mean dealing with higher visitor numbers, so early morning visits are recommended.
The museum is open throughout the year, except on some public holidays. The typical visiting hours are:
It’s advisable to check the official website or contact the museum before your visit for any changes in timings or special closures.
The Machado de Castro National Museum is famous for its outstanding collections of Portuguese sculpture and religious art, making it one of the finest museums in Portugal. Its namesake, Joaquim Machado de Castro, was a master sculptor from the 18th century whose works greatly influenced Portuguese art.
The museum also draws visitors due to its unique location in the former Bishop’s Palace and the impressive archaeological site underneath — a Roman cryptoporticus dating back to the 1st century AD. This underground gallery offers a rare glimpse into Roman urban architecture.
Additionally, the museum's collection includes paintings, metalwork, ceramics, textiles, and furniture, providing a broad overview of Portugal’s artistic heritage. The blend of history, art, and architecture makes it a must-see destination in Coimbra.
Visitors can purchase tickets at the museum entrance or sometimes online for convenience. Details include:
The museum is housed in the former Episcopal Palace of Coimbra, a building that dates back to the 12th century but was remodeled and expanded across several centuries. The palace’s architecture blends medieval and Renaissance elements with Baroque influences seen in some later additions.
A highlight of the museum’s architecture is the Roman cryptoporticus beneath the building. This subterranean gallery, built in the 1st century AD, was part of the Roman forum that once stood in Coimbra (then called Aeminium). The cryptoporticus was rediscovered and restored, allowing visitors to walk through ancient vaulted corridors that have survived nearly two millennia.
The museum’s galleries are thoughtfully arranged to showcase Portuguese art from the Middle Ages to the modern era, including sculptures, paintings, ceramics, and religious artifacts. The layout and lighting enhance the experience, providing a harmonious blend of old and new.
