Carmo Archaeological Museum

Archaeological museum · Chiado

Carmo Archaeological Museum

Archaeological museum · Chiado

3

Largo do Carmo, 1200-092 Lisboa, Portugal

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Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by Photo by Luis Santos / age fotostock
Carmo Archaeological Museum by Photo by Luis Santos / age fotostock
Carmo Archaeological Museum by Photo by Luis Santos / age fotostock
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null
Carmo Archaeological Museum by null

Highlights

Lisbon’s Carmo Convent offers hauntingly beautiful 14th-century Gothic ruins with soaring arches open to the sky, plus a small museum packed with captivating artifacts.  

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Largo do Carmo, 1200-092 Lisboa, Portugal Get directions

museuarqueologicodocarmo.pt

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Largo do Carmo, 1200-092 Lisboa, Portugal Get directions

+351 21 346 0473
museuarqueologicodocarmo.pt
museuarqueologicodocarmo
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@museuarqcarmo

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Jul 30, 2025

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@afar

"In 1755, Lisbon was all but devoured by an earthquake so strong that it still ranks as one of the most destructive in recorded history. One of the few structures to survive somewhat intact was the Carmo Convent—an impressive feat, considering it was built in the 14th century. Today, you can still tour its beautiful skeleton, complete with soaring archways that cut a majestic path across the sky. Also worth visiting is the open courtyard, which houses spillover ruins from the attached archaeological museum."

The Perfect Weekend in Lisbon
View Postcard for Carmo Convent
@afar

"In 1755, Lisbon was all but devoured by an earthquake so strong that it still ranks as one of the most destructive in recorded history. One of the few structures to survive somewhat intact was the Carmo Convent—an impressive feat, considering it was built in the 14th century. Today, you can still tour its beautiful skeleton, complete with soaring archways that cut a majestic path across the sky. Also worth visiting is the open courtyard, which houses spillover ruins from the attached archaeological museum."

The Best Things to Do in Lisbon
View Postcard for Carmo Convent
@afar

"In 1755, Lisbon was all but devoured by an earthquake so strong that it still ranks as one of the most destructive in recorded history. One of the few structures to survive somewhat intact was the Carmo Convent—an impressive feat, considering it was built in the 14th century. Today, you can still tour its beautiful skeleton, complete with soaring archways that cut a majestic path across the sky. Also worth visiting is the open courtyard, which houses spillover ruins from the attached archaeological museum."

The Perfect Day in Lisbon
View Postcard for Carmo Convent

Denis Iancu

Google
The place is full of history and the architecture is impressive. Not a lot to see actually but it's worth the pay. The outdoor is also a good spot to chill and stare at the exterior architecture. A plus that they have toilets. I recommend this place!

Mārtiņš Būmanis

Google
We decided to come here because of the cat. In fact the cat even has souvenirs! The museum itself is quite stunning both the damaged part and the intact part. The cost is 7 euros for adults and it was a great experience to learn more about history and even see some mummies. All of the specimens from different ages are very well preserved :)

Kim Gisa

Google
What a beautiful space. This museum isn’t too big and you can definitely do within the hour. It costs 7 euros for an adult ticket (or 5 euros for students, provided you have your student ID) at the door, which I actually found worth it. This place was STUNNING. The other archeological pieces that were housed there were also interesting to look at and read about. Such a beautiful part of Lisbon’s history.

KinEst Fest

Google
the suggestive remains of the Church and the Convent recall the destruction of the earthquake and offer beautiful views. the connection to the elevator and the view over the entire historic center are very pleasant. the relaxing square with trees, musicians and kiosks is also beautiful.

potatoes

Google
Awe inspiring museum. Has an impressive range of items such as mummies and ancient tombs. Added bonus of a projected video explaining the history of the building in both Portuguese and English. Friendly cat also made its rounds.

Loeka Lemmens

Google
It was so impressive to be able to see the sky through the roof! It is a rather small museum but definitely worth your visit. The movie you can watch for free at the end of the museum on the inside gives a lot of information about the history of the place.

Isabella Pupita

Google
Seeing the clear sky through the missing roof of the cathedral is really impressive. The story of the cathedral and the archeological site is very interesting. The story of the ruins are told through an animated picture projected on the walls of the cathedral. Very nice.

Alexander Fröschl

Google
A very impressive ruin of an old 15th-century monastery, which was destroyed in an earthquake in the 18th century. The remains look very impressive. There's also a really nice museum, which, among other things, shows a short film. The entrance fee is also very reasonable.

Diogo C.

Yelp
This church was destroyed during the biggest tragedy in Lisbon. The earthquake of 1755. Now it's very well preserved and contains multiple objects discovered during it renovation. Besides all the objects spread in the museum that are nice to see and see the history of the church. It also has a projected video in one of the walls. This video explains all the history of the church and is one of the most amazing museum experience I have seen in Portugal. I would recommend a stop at this space.
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Kanchan B.

Yelp
Visiting here was both heart-breaking and a testimony to how the human spirit endures. Testament left standing since the 17th century, to the earthquake that hit Lisbon in that era. I was very moved. Yelp 2019
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Tiffany H.

Yelp
Famous church without a roof. Testament to what survived the earthquake many years ago. Nov 1st 1755. In the back there's a museum w many historical items. It's a great place to explore, the bathroom was a great find. Nice n clean. ( Most public bathrooms in Lisbon are not free) good day to learn something new.
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Jay P.

Yelp
CHURCH WITH NO ROOF, founded in the 14th century and destroyed during an earthquake in 1755, it's been preserved as ruins withe the roof never repaired and now a Unesco World Heritage site. The architecture is done in Gothic style with the floorplan in the shape of a cross. It's still grand and imposing, the odd thought I had was how insane the scaffolding must have been to complete some of the imposingly high arches and roof. I was surprised to find I spent very little time in the open roof section. It's the first thing you see when you walk in but for some reason it wasn't as appealing as I thought it would be, the back section is under construction so it's covered and an active work area. There is a small museum in back which I enjoyed a lot more. The masonary and stone carving work is excellent and slightly creepy, there are also two out of place Peruvian mummies on display.
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Katie H.

Yelp
This was a small but worthwhile stop in the center of the touristy Baixa-Chiado area. It's actually quite remarkable to see such beautiful ruins existing in the middle of a bustling city center, very reminiscent of Rome. The convent itself is beautiful inside and a haunting reminder of the devastating 1755 earthquake. They also added some art pieces from local artists, which makes the interior an interesting mix of old and new. Admission also includes a small archeological museum attached to the ruins with plenty of artifacts to keep you entertained if that's your jam. If you're lucky, you'll also get to meet the convent cat. We spent a relaxing hour inside.
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Jennifer S.

Yelp
Cool ruins snd museum inside. Use your Lisboa card for discount Ted cards to 4 euros per person. Try to visit when the sun is out as there is a section you can enjoy that is outdoors.
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Tanja N.

Yelp
Carmo convent ruins are incredibly romantic leftover of the ancient Carmo convent and church that still stands as a reminder of the one of the largest earthquakes that ever rocked Europe, and Lisbon itself. On November 1st, 1755, on All-Saint Day, almost all Lisbon was destroyed by today's estimate an earthquake with magnitude around 8.5. These ruins stand beautifully in the middle of the rebuilt Lisbon and today they are home to the archeological museum that is dedicated to Portuguese history. This was probably one of my favorite places in Lisbon. We came early in the morning, just as they opened, so we had the ruins and museum to ourselves the first few minutes at least. We loved the movies about the earthquake, the museum have some gorgeous artifacts and the whole grounds have really special feeling.. makes you whisper while you're there. To the right of the ruins is direct access to Justa elevator (the top floor), and you can take elevator down or you can walk around whole block and take the ride up. There is also a nice platform where you can see all the way to Tagus River or look at the convent ruins from the other side.
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Krys P.

Yelp
The first time I visited Lisbon, I saw a beautiful church up on top of the hill and wanted very much to visit. Later I found out its name and when I saw some pictures, I know I just have to be there. It's a little uphill walk from the main downtown area, but when I entered after paying the modest entrance fee... I just stood there, awed. The white stone, greyed by age, stood in beautiful contrast to the clear azure sky Portugal is known for. The tall structure provided a cool shade against the hot sun, a gentle breeze blowing through the roofless arches. The quietness and tranquility made me forget that I am in the middle of a big city, and carried me back in time... back to the 18th century when an earthquake and fire destroyed the church... further back to the 14th century as I imagined the building in its glory. Walked further in, there's a small museum of sort. There is not a lot of explanation and the collection seems somewhat lacking in theme, it's fun to browse around. The highlight though, is definitely the gorgeous outdoor ruins. The Portuguese seems to be really fond of preserving the ruins of damaged buildings (even as far away as the St Paul's ruins in Macau), this type of remains is not something you'll see everywhere, so definitely don't miss it!!
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Taylor Z.

Yelp
One of the coolest museums I've been. The missing roof makes for some stunning photos. The artifacts on display were really interesting. Especially the mummy.

Daniel S.

Yelp
Our departure flight was canceled and rescheduled giving us 2 extra days in Lisbon and we decided to go to this museum. What a great choice! It is small but well designed and fascinating. I would highly recommend. Fantastic historical interest. You can walkthrough and then revisit the more interesting displays all in about 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Alex M.

Yelp
It will be 4 euro to enter this excellent museum and monument to the 1755 earthquake. It's eerie and beautiful. Most of Lisbon has been rebuilt so well you don't realize how epic the destruction must have been. There is a small museum included in the price of the ticket. In the museum you will find tomb covers, sculptures, wall decorations, tiles, mummies ( from Peru), books, a model of the church as it once was and a gift shop. There are bathrooms available. And don't miss the National Guard museum right next door. At 2 euro we weren't expecting much but it was awesome. Lovingly curated and interesting.
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Chun P.

Yelp
I wandered upon this museum and ancient church by accident, but its definitely worth a visit. The church dates all the way back to 1389, not long before Portugal's rise as a great world power. Unfortunately a massive earthquake and ensuing fire destroyed most of the building, leaving just the eerie remains of the frame and arches...fascinating. Since then, efforts to rebuild the main sanctuary have failed, but the other structures were repaired and are now used as a museum for a variety of Portugal's historical artifacts. Its definitely worth €4 for entry.
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William G.

Yelp
These beautiful ruins are older than the United States. The official birthday of the United States is in the year 1776. This place has been standing here in ruin since the 1755 earthquake that devastated the city of Lisboa. After hundreds of years they still pack the same awe to travelers. If you pick the right time of day, when the shadows of the arches create stunning picture shot opportunities, you will be rewarded with stunning pictures afterwards. The museum here is also very nice. Although, the mummy remains of two Peruvian kids in jars is just a little bit creepy. These church ruins are a must do, while in Lisboa.
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L L.

Yelp
14thC church, ruined in the 1755 earthquake. This site was founded as a museum in 1864. The museum consists of the ruined church structure, which is outdoors in that there is no roof, so you are exposed to the elements. At the far end of it, where the chancel would be for architecture of the era, is an enclosed museum. The indoor portion houses various artifacts, some Roman epigraphy, some tribal items brought by Portuguese explorers from the Meso- and South Americas, and some prehistoric items from the excavation of Castro de Vila Nova de S. Pedro, dating to the Neolithic (Stone Age) and Chalcolithic (Copper Age) periods. There is a gift shop at one end of the indoor portion, which carries a number of books on archaeology. The gift shop has a beautiful window looking out over the city, with visibility straight to Castelo de S. Jorge. This museum also serves as the headquarters of the Association of Portuguese Archaeologists. Tickets are 4€, or 5,50€ for a guided tour. If you have the Lisboa card, it's only 3,20€, and it's free for kids under 14. They offer discounts for seniors, students, and disabled persons. Having been to big archaeological exhibits at the National Gallery in London, the Met in NYC, and the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology at home in Philadelphia, the collections at Museu Arqueológico do Carmo were not as vast or varied, but they held my interest just the same, and their context inside ruins that (as another Yelper mentioned) are older than my country, made me think a lot about how cultures study one another, and view one another as museum collections, representative of entire peoples who live and breathe as you and I, just in a different time and place. I think the exhibits really accomplished showing me this relativity in a way that other archaeological exhibitions have not. The volume of artifacts at the abovementioned museums, just seem too large to comprehend in the way I could this much more digestible number of pieces, juxtaposed in small rooms side-by-side, bringing such vastly different cultures into close vicinity. For me, it was a great historical / anthropological perspective.
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Sara C.

Yelp
Although it is small this is definitely worth the stop in! We spent about 45 minutes to an hour here and really enjoyed it. The church is absolutely beautiful and the exhibits are pretty cool.
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Sean R.

Yelp
Had to see for myself after walking by and viewing all the pictures. Glad we did since the "ruins" are so well kept. The museum has preservations of what was kept and found after the earthquake and ensuing damage. I can see that depending on the time of day the pictures will be awesome.
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Rita V.

Yelp
Lovely but really REALLY small. Really. Its worth going in because of its place in history. But its underwhelming.
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Jennifer E.

Yelp
Such a gorgeous setting - a church with the roof open to the sky! A novel way to appreciate architecture, history and art in one setting. Lots of interesting artifacts inside as well, with a sense of local history. So peaceful you could forget you are in the center of the city. Cool terrace with lounge chairs outside as well, perfect for nice weather. I would definitely recommend to any Lisbon visitor.