Welcome to the Machado de Castro National Museum! We are in a space whose history goes back two thousands of years. The Museum is located in a national monument, which has witnessed several architectural developments. It was a Roman Forum during the early years of the Christian era, an Episcopal Palace after Portugal was established and a Museum after the founding of the Portuguese Republic. The name chosen for this Museum was a deserved tribute to Joaquim Machado de Castro, an important Portuguese sculptor who was originally from Coimbra. Nearly a century after its creation, the Museum has been renovated and expanded, according to a project designed by architect Gonçalo Byrne. We hope you enjoy your visit!