1100-468 Lisboa
The place where it is today the Military Museum is since the reign of King Manuel I, the site for deposit of military equipment and workshops for gunpowder manufacture and artillery foundry.
King John V ordered the construction of the existing building, naming the French Fernando de Larre as its architect. It was partially destroyed by the 1755 earthquake, and the Marquis of Pombal ordered its reconstruction. Shortly after, it was named as Royal Arsenal of the Army.
It is natural that it gave rise to a military museum (1842), as it continued to operate as a deposit of artillery pieces, rifles and other firearms, old armours, foreign flags, trophies won by the Portuguese and the busts of battle heroes.
In the meantime, an imposing portal was built with Corinthian columns and topped by a pediment with an allegorical group of sculptures by the artist Teixeira Lopes.
The Museum currently has 33 rooms that present the chronological evolution of weapons and military skills. All the spaces are embellished by paintings, sculptures and decorative tiles, from the 18th to the 20th century, all of military themes.
In the “Canyons Yard” with glazed tiles representing several battles, visitors may also find a shop and cafeteria.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00am to 5.00pm. Closed on Monday and holidays.
