Coaches Museum
Vehicles made for royalty
One of Lisbon's most visited sights, the Coaches Museum (Museu Nacional dos Coches) has the largest and
most valuable collection of its type in the world.
It is housed in a richly decorated 18th century royal riding school that is
part of
Belem
Palace, illustrating the ostentation and staggering wealth of
the old Portuguese elite.
Each coach is more magnificent than the other, showing how coach-makers went
to extraordinary lengths to make their vehicles stand out. One of the most
outstanding has gilded figures on the tailgate showing Lisbon crowned by
Fame and Abundance and a dragon trampling the Muslim crescent.
Another one,
used in an embassy to France's Louis XIV, depicts cherubs with bat's wings.
Yet another splendid example was built in 1716 for Portugal's ambassador to
Pope Clement XI, decorated with allegorical scenes representing Portuguese
military and maritime triumphs.
More wonderful examples belonged to several European royal families, from
Spain to England, including a 19th century coach built in London last used
by Queen Elizabeth II on a state visit.
Get FREE admission to the museum and ride Lisbon's metro, buses, and trams for free with the Lisboa Card.
Jeronimos
Monastery - A World Heritage monument; Vasco da Gama's resting place.
Belem
Tower - The city's icon; a symbol of the Age of Discovery.
Berardo Museum - World-class collection of modern art.
Discoveries
Monument - The world's explorers in stone.
Maritime
Museum - The story of Portugal's pioneering role in world exploration at sea.
Archaeology
Museum - Archaeological finds from over the centuries.
Belem Cultural
Center - Modern cultural center with regular exhibitions and events.
Tropical
Garden - Beautiful garden with rare plants from around the world.
Belem
Palace - The home of Portugal's President.
Memoria
Church - Elegant neoclassical church.
Ajuda
Palace - An extravagant royal palace.
Ajuda
Botanical Garden - Beautiful gardens overlooking the river.
25
de Abril Bridge - Golden Gate's twin sister.
Docas - Attractive dock area with cosmopolitan
bars and restaurants.
