Maritime Museum in Belem - Museu de Marinha

The Maritime Museum in Belém: Visitor's Guide

If you are planning a trip to Lisbon and wish to explore the city's maritime history, the Maritime Museum in Belém—known as the Museu de Marinha—should be on your list. This museum provides an in-depth look at Portugal's seafaring legacy, featuring a wide range of artifacts including royal barges, navigational tools, and ship models.

Overview of the Maritime Museum

The Museu de Marinha is dedicated to showcasing Portugal's maritime achievements, particularly during the Age of Discovery. It is located in the west wing of the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as in a modern annex. Visitors can expect to see interesting exhibits that detail Portugal's role as a global explorer, making it a valuable stop for anyone interested in the maritime history of Lisbon.

Details About the Museu de Marinha

The official name of the Maritime Museum is the Museu de Marinha, which is operated by the Portuguese Navy. It was established in 1863 by King Luís I, who had a keen interest in naval history. The museum exhibits various collections, including the Berardo Collection, 17th-century astrolabes, and replicas of padrões—stone markers placed by earlier explorers. Items related to renowned Portuguese navigators, such as Vasco da Gama, are also on display, providing insight into their contributions to exploration.

Location and Accessibility

The Maritime Museum is situated at Praça do Império, 1400-206 Lisboa, in the heart of Belém. It is conveniently located near other notable landmarks, including the Belém Tower and the Pastéis de Belém bakery. The museum is easily accessible by public transportation, with tram 15E, bus 728, and trains to Belém station providing service to visitors.

History of the Museum

The history of the Museu de Marinha dates back to its founding in 1863 by King Luís I. It was initially housed in the Naval School before relocating to its current location in the Jerónimos Monastery in 1962, with a modern annex added later. The museum's collection reflects Portugal's maritime dominance during the Age of Discovery and includes various significant artifacts, such as the Santa Clara seaplane and royal barges.

Importance of the Maritime Museum

The Museu de Marinha is significant because it serves as a testament to Portugal's identity as a seafaring nation. It highlights how Portuguese explorers shaped global navigation, culture, and trade. Exhibits featuring items from the Far East and innovations in navigation further illustrate the country's contributions to maritime history.

Why Visit the Maritime Museum?

Visiting the Maritime Museum offers a comprehensive look into Portugal's fascinating maritime story. Its strategic location near other attractions in Belém makes it a practical addition to your itinerary. With its variety of exhibits and focus on Portugal's maritime history, the Museu de Marinha is an important destination for anyone interested in Lisbon's cultural heritage.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Maritime Museum in Belém

How Much Are Ticket Prices for the Maritime Museum Lisbon in 2025?

Here's the breakdown. Standard adult admission is €6.50, with discounts for seniors (€3.25 for 65+), students, and youth (12-25 years) at around €3.25. Kids under 12 get in free, and families (2 adults + 2 kids) can grab a deal for about €15. The Lisboa Card offers a reduced rate of €5, saving you a bit. You can buy tickets online or at the museum, and combo tickets with the Jerónimos Monastery or Navy Planetarium are great for exploring more Belem tourist attractions.

What Are the Opening Hours of the Maritime Museum Belem?

The Museu de Marinha is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with last entry at 5:30 PM. It's closed on Mondays and major holidays like January 1, May 1, and December 24, 25, and 31. If you're planning around "Belem Lisbon museums," note that summer hours (March to September) may extend slightly, so check the official website for updates to avoid missing out.

How Do I Get to the Maritime Museum Lisbon by Public Transport?

Getting to this Belem tourist attraction is super easy. Located at Praça do Império, 1400-206 Lisboa, the museum is in Belém, near the Jerónimos Monastery. From central Lisbon, hop on tram 15E or bus 728 from Praça do Comércio, both stopping at Belém. You can also take a train from Cais do Sodré to Belém station, a short walk away. The Lisboa Card gives you free rides on these routes, making it a budget-friendly choice for exploring .

Is the Maritime Museum Lisbon Accessible for People with Disabilities?

The Museu de Marinha offers wheelchair access via ramps in the main building and the modern annex, though some older sections in the Jerónimos Monastery may have limited access due to historical architecture. Accessible restrooms are available, and staff can assist with navigation.

Are There Guided Tours at the Maritime Museum Belem?

ours are available for groups and individuals, typically lasting about an hour, and can be booked via the museum's website or by emailing info.museu@marinha.pt.

Does the Lisboa Card Offer Discounts for the Maritime Museum?

The Lisboa Card slashes the standard €6.50 ticket to €5, a nice perk for budget travelers. It also grants free entry to nearby sites like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, plus unlimited public transport, making it ideal for those exploring "Belem ." You can buy the card online here.

How Long Does It Take to Visit the Maritime Museum Lisbon?

Plan for about 1 to 1.5 hours for a standard visit, covering highlights like the Far East Room, Gago Coutinho seaplane, and Berardo Collection. If you join a guided tour or dive deep into every exhibit, like the 1645 terrestrial globe, allow up to 2 hours. For those asking "What to do in Belem Lisbon?", pair your visit with nearby Jerónimos Monastery or Belém Tower for a full day of exploring Belem tourist attractions.

Is the Maritime Museum Wheelchair Accessible?

The Museu de Marinha is designed to welcome visitors with mobility needs, with a few considerations. The modern annex, housing exhibits like the Far East Room and Gago Coutinho seaplane, features ramps and elevators for easy access. The Jerónimos Monastery section, where you'll find royal barges and the 1645 terrestrial globe, has partial accessibility due to its historical architecture, but staff are available to assist. Accessible restrooms are provided, and wheelchairs can navigate most key areas.

FAQ : Exhibits at the Maritime Museum in Belém

Key exhibits include the Santa Clara seaplane, royal barges, and the Far East Room, which highlight Portugal's Age of Discovery. While temporary exhibitions rotate, 2025 may feature special showcases tied to events like Open House Lisboa 2025, so check the museum's website for updates.

Are There Vasco da Gama Artifacts at the Maritime Museum?

The Museu de Marinha honors the legendary navigator with treasures like his portable altar, a sacred item used during his voyages. You'll also find replicas of padrões, stone markers Vasco da Gama placed during his explorations, symbolizing Portugal's reach. 

What Ship Models Are in the Maritime Museum Belem?

 The Museu de Marinha boasts an extensive collection of Portuguese ship models, ranging from 15th-century caravels to modern naval vessels. Standouts include detailed replicas of galleons from the Age of Discovery and the royal yacht Amelia, complete with its opulent cabin. These models showcase Portugal's shipbuilding past abilities.

What is the Santa Clara Seaplane Exhibit in Lisbon?

The "Santa Clara" is a Fairey III seaplane that holds a significant place in Portuguese aviation history. It is most famous for being the aircraft used by Portuguese aviators Gago Coutinho and Sacadura Cabral during their pioneering flight across the South Atlantic from Lisbon to Rio de Janeiro in 1922. This flight marked the first aerial crossing of the South Atlantic, an impressive achievement that brought fame to both the aviators and their seaplane. Today, the "Santa Clara" is a star attraction at the Maritime Museum in Lisbon. 

Are There Royal Barges at the Maritime Museum Lisbon?

The Museu de Marinha houses a stunning collection of royal barges, including the ornate 18th-century brigantine used by the Portuguese royal family. These beautifully preserved vessels, adorned with intricate carvings, were once rowed along the Tagus River for ceremonies. Located in a dedicated pavilion, they're a top draw for visitors exploring "Belem tourist attractions" or "Portuguese maritime artifacts." Don't miss the royal yacht Amelia's cabin nearby for more royal flair!

What Astrolabes Are Displayed at the Museu de Marinha?

The museum showcases a remarkable collection of these ancient navigational tools. Highlights include 17th-century astrolabes, used by Portuguese navigators like Vasco da Gama to chart the seas. These brass instruments, blending science and art, were crucial during the Age of Discovery. If you're searching "Lisbon history museums" or "Portuguese exploration history," the astrolabe display is a fascinating glimpse into how Portugal conquered the oceans.

What is the Far East Room at the Maritime Museum?

The Far East Room at the Maritime Museum?", it's one of the Museu de Marinha's most captivating spaces. This exhibit highlights Portugal's trade and cultural exchanges with Asia during the Age of Discovery, featuring artifacts like porcelain, textiles, and maps from the Far East. It showcases how Portuguese navigators connected Europe to Asia, making it a gem for those exploring "Lisbon maritime history." 

What is the 1645 Terrestrial Globe at the Maritime Museum?

This rare artifact is aother star of the Museu de Marinha's collection. Crafted in 1645, the globe offers a glimpse into 17th-century cartography, showing the world as understood during Portugal's golden age of exploration.

Who Were the Portuguese Navigators Featured in the Maritime Museum?

The Museu de Marinha spotlights the legends who put Portugal on the map. You'll find artifacts tied to Vasco da Gama, who sailed to India in 1498, including his portable altar. Ferdinand Magellan, who led the first circumnavigation of the globe, and Bartolomeu Dias, who rounded the Cape of Good Hope, also shine. The museum honors Henry the Navigator, the mastermind behind Portugal's early explorations, with displays of navigational tools. These stories make the museum a gem for visitors curious about "Belem cultural attractions" or "Portuguese navigators."

What is the Role of Henry the Navigator in the Maritime Museum?

Prince Henry was the visionary who kickstarted the Age of Discovery in the 15th century. He founded a navigation school in Sagres, trained explorers, and funded voyages along Africa's coast. At the Museu de Marinha, you'll see his legacy in exhibits like astrolabes, maps, and padrões replicas, which symbolize Portugal's early claims. For those searching "Lisbon maritime history," Henry's influence is a highlight, making the museum a key stop among Belem Lisbon museums.

What Are the Padrões Replicas in the Maritime Museum Belem?

They're fascinating symbols of Portugal's reach. Padrões were stone pillars planted by explorers like Vasco da Gama and Bartolomeu Dias to mark discoveries and claim territories during the Age of Discovery. The Museu de Marinha displays detailed replicas, showcasing their carved crosses and inscriptions.