Gulbenkian Museum | Gulbenkian Lisbon

Calouste Gulbenkian, the founder collector of the museum, was a philanthropist originating from Caesarea who clearly had a great passion for art. Being a globetrotting businessman he was able to collect art pieces from many different countries. He started collecting several art pieces from places like Egypt, Japan and Portugal’s neighbouring countries. As a result, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum houses a versatile collection of many artworks from all over the world and has turned into a very popular museum and lisbon attraction.

Only 14 years after the death of Calouste Gulbenkian in 1969, the museum was opened to the public and continues to expand the collection with both antique and contemporary pieces. The museum boasts a holding of over 6000 pieces of art, sculpture, and paintings.

Whilst an avid art love myself, I was equally impressed with the location of the Gulbenkian museum being set in lush sprawling landscaped gardens. A total treat in the heart of the city! Here, you will find people reading in quite alcoves, taking time-out from the busy streets outside. It is an oasis truly with a lake and amphitheatre for outdoor events. I  bring my guests here as par for the course on a nice day it is a sure-fire winner!

Visit Lisbon if you Love Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and More!

If you are wondering how a single collector of arts could have such a mesmerisingly extensive collection of rare art pieces of his own, then there are two other such of a kind to see on your Lisbon visit.

• Berardo Collection Museum: This is a museum celebrating the culture of Belém built by José Manuel Rodrigues Berardo, a billionaire entrepreneur from Portugal. The collection of modern and contemporary pieces includes more than 500 renowned artists worldwide. 

• Casa Museu Medeiros E Almeida: António de Medeiros e Almeida, a founder collector of this museum started as an automobile and aviation business holding. The collector filled his then home with tons of historic and vintage collections of furniture, art, and decorative pieces of the period. In the late 20^th century, it was open to the public as a museum.
• If you have had enough of Lisbon Art & Culture then take a look at other fabulous experiences on offer in Lisbon!