Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation and Museum in Lisbon

Discovering The Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation

What is the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and Foundation? A Lisbon Must-See!

Planning a trip to Lisbon and wondering where to find a unique blend of art, history, and tranquil green spaces? Look no further than the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation (or Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian in Portuguese). This isn't just a museum; it's a sprawling cultural complex born from the vision of Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian, an Armenian philanthropist and art collector who left an incredible legacy to the city of Lisbon. Here, you'll find an extraordinary private collection of art spanning millennia, alongside a significant modern art center, beautiful gardens, and a vibrant program of cultural events.

Calouste Gulbenkian: The Man Behind Lisbon's Foundation

Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian (1869–1955), an Armenian-born oil magnate, philanthropist, and art collector. Born in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul), Gulbenkian amassed a fortune through oil ventures, notably as a key figure in the Middle East petroleum industry, earning the nickname "Mr. Five Percent" for his strategic stake in oil deals. A cultured polyglot with a passion for art, he built one of the world's most significant private art collections, spanning ancient Egypt to the early 20th century.

Gulbenkian's connection to Lisbon began in 1942, when he moved there during World War II, drawn by Portugal's neutrality and his appreciation for the city. After initially planning to house his collection in London, diplomatic challenges and his dissatisfaction with post-war Britain's policies led him to choose Lisbon. His will, finalized before his death in 1955, bequeathed his fortune and collection to create a foundation in Lisbon dedicated to fostering art, charity, science, and education for the benefit of humanity. The foundation's headquarters and museum opened in 1969, designed as a cultural hub that remains a cornerstone of Portugal's cultural landscape.

Where is the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum Located in Lisbon, and How Do I Get There?

You might be asking, "How do I get to the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum in Lisbon?" Luckily, it's very accessible! The foundation is centrally located in the Avenidas Novas district, at Avenida de Berna 45A, 1067-001 Lisbon.

• By Metro: The easiest way! Take the Blue or Red Line to São Sebastião station. From there, it's just a quick 5-minute walk.
• By Bus: Several bus lines stop nearby, including 713, 716, 726, and 756, leaving you just a 2-minute walk from the entrance on Avenida de Berna.
• By Taxi/Uber: A convenient 10-minute ride from downtown Lisbon, typically costing €5-€8.

What to See at the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation: From Ancient Treasures to Modern Art

So, "What can I see at the Gulbenkian Foundation?" Prepare for a truly diverse and enriching experience! The complex offers multiple attractions.

The Founder's Collection: A World of Masterpieces

The heart of the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is the incredible private art collection amassed by Calouste Gulbenkian himself. He was known as "Mr. Five Percent" in the oil industry, but in the art world, he was a discerning collector! "What kind of art is in the Gulbenkian Museum?" You'll journey through:

• Ancient Civilizations: Marvel at pieces from ancient Egypt, Greco-Roman antiquity, and Mesopotamian art.
• Islamic and Asian Art: Discover stunning Persian carpets, exquisite Iznik ceramics, and rare Armenian manuscripts, reflecting Gulbenkian's heritage.
• European Masters: Feast your eyes on paintings by renowned artists like Rubens, Rembrandt (don't miss his Portrait of an Old Man), Monet (Break-Up of the Ice), Manet, Degas, Renoir, and Turner.
• René Lalique Jewelry: A true highlight! Step into a dedicated room showcasing a unique collection of Art Nouveau jewelry acquired directly from the celebrated artist, including intricate dragonfly brooches.

Note: 

As of May 2025, the main Calouste Gulbenkian Museum (Founder's Collection) is undergoing renovations and is closed until July 2026. However, the rest of the Foundation remains open and is well worth a visit!

The Modern Art Centre (CAM): Portuguese Art at its Best

This center houses the most important collection of modern and contemporary Portuguese art from the 20th and 21st centuries. You'll see works by significant artists like Paula Rego, Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, and Almada Negreiros, alongside some notable British and Armenian pieces. Reopened in 2024 after extensive redevelopment, CAM's integration with the surrounding garden makes for a beautiful and engaging viewing experience.

The Gulbenkian Gardens: An Urban Oasis

"Are there gardens at the Gulbenkian Foundation?"  Yes, and they are magnificent! The Gulbenkian Gardens are a sprawling 7.6-hectare urban oasis, meticulously designed by landscape architects António Viana Barreto and Gonçalo Ribeiro Telles. With a tranquil trapezoid lake, diverse bird species, and winding paths through woods and wetlands, they are the perfect spot for:

• A relaxing stroll and escape from the city bustle.
• Enjoying open-air concerts and festivals, especially the popular August Jazz Festival.

Cultural Events and Philanthropic Legacy

Beyond the art, the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation is a cultural hub. 

• Concerts and Performances: The Grand Auditorium hosts the renowned Gulbenkian Orchestra and Choir, offering a year-round season of classical music.
• Temporary Exhibitions: Check their website for current exhibitions, which often complement the permanent collections.
• Philanthropic Impact: The foundation supports global initiatives in art, science, education, and charity, including the annual Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity, which focuses on climate innovation, and programs supporting Portuguese-speaking African countries and Armenian communities.

How Long Does it Take to Visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation?

While the main museum is closed for renovation, you can still easily spend 2-3 hours exploring the CAM, the gardens, and enjoying the atmosphere. Once the main museum reopens, allow at least 1-1.5 hours for that collection as well.

In summary

The Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation is more than just a collection of art; it's a center of culture, education, and philanthropy. Its modernist architecture, tranquil gardens, and diverse artistic offerings make it a unique and enriching experience in Lisbon. Even with the main museum temporarily closed, the CAM, the gardens, and the vibrant cultural program ensure that a visit here is a captivating journey into both artistic excellence and humanitarian spirit. It's a must-see for anyone looking to delve deeper into Lisbon's cultural scene.