10 Things to Do at Machado de Castro National Museum Coimbra Portugal
The Machado de Castro National Museum in Coimbra, Portugal is one of the country’s most important cultural and historical attractions. The museum was founded in 1913 and is home to a vast collection of artifacts and artworks from the Roman, Visigothic, and Moorish periods. The museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the history and culture of Portugal. Here are 10 things to do at Machado de Castro National Museum Coimbra Portugal.
1. Check Out the Ancient Roman Ruins
The Machado de Castro National Museum is home to the ruins of the ancient Roman Forum of Coimbra, which dates back to the 1st century AD. The ruins are a great way to get a glimpse into Roman life in Portugal and are a must-see for anyone interested in Roman history.
2. Explore the Visigothic Art Collection
The Visigothic art collection at the Machado de Castro National Museum is one of the largest and most important collections of its kind in Portugal. The collection includes a variety of artifacts from the 5th to the 8th centuries, including jewelry, pottery, and stone sculptures.
3. See the Moorish-Style Architecture
The Machado de Castro National Museum features several examples of Moorish-style architecture, including the 12th-century Chapel of São Miguel, which is considered one of the finest examples of Moorish architecture in Portugal. The chapel is decorated with intricate tilework and is a must-see for anyone interested in Moorish art and architecture.
4. Visit the Museum’s Library
The Machado de Castro National Museum is home to an extensive library, which contains over 40,000 books, manuscripts, and documents. The library is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of Portugal and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Portuguese history.
5. Take a Tour of the Museum
The Machado de Castro National Museum offers a variety of guided tours, which are a great way to learn more about the museum’s collection and the history of Portugal. The tours are offered in both English and Portuguese and are a great way to get the most out of your visit.
6. Attend an Art Workshop
The Machado de Castro National Museum offers a variety of art workshops for visitors of all ages. The workshops are a great way to learn more about the art and culture of Portugal and are a great way to get creative.
7. Check Out the Museum’s Special Exhibitions
The Machado de Castro National Museum hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year. The exhibitions are a great way to learn more about the museum’s collection and the history of Portugal and are a must-see for anyone interested in Portuguese art and culture.
8. Take a Break in the Museum’s Café
The Machado de Castro National Museum has a café, which is a great place to take a break and relax after a day of exploring the museum’s collection. The café offers a variety of snacks and drinks and is a great place to take a break and recharge.
9. Visit the Museum’s Gift Shop
The Machado de Castro National Museum has a gift shop, which is a great place to find souvenirs and gifts to take home. The shop offers a variety of books, postcards, and other souvenirs and is a great way to remember your visit.
10. Learn More About the Museum’s History
The Machado de Castro National Museum has a long and fascinating history. The museum was founded in 1913 and has been open to the public since then. The museum is a great place to learn more about the history of Portugal and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Portuguese culture and history.