Centro Cultural de Belem (Belem Cultural Center), Lisbon

Situated between the Tagus River and the Jerónimos Monastery, this contemporary and stylish building, crafted from pink marble, was constructed to serve as the headquarters for the Portuguese presidency of the European Community. It was conceived by a collaboration between Italian and Portuguese architects, Vittorio Gregotti and Manuel Salgado, and earned recognition by winning the International Stone Architecture Award at the Verona Fair in 1993. In that same year, it transformed into a cultural center that offers a diverse range of artistic experiences, encompassing performing arts, music, and photography. Inside its premises lies an exhibition center that houses the Berardo Collection Museum ("Museu Colecção Berardo").

Spanning an expansive 97,000 square meters, the CCB radiates an open, airy, and spacious ambiance, setting it apart from many other significant art galleries, which often feel confined by comparison. Its remarkable collection of modern and contemporary art, spanning from the 1960s to the present day, showcases an array of valuable artworks, including pieces by renowned artists such as Picasso and Warhol. This collection continually thrives, enriched by frequent visiting exhibitions, live outdoor performances, and indoor concerts. Nevertheless, the sheer aesthetic delight of the interior space is a marvel in itself.

The building's architectural lines are truly exceptional, and even its external features, including walkways and gardens that offer scenic views of the waterfront, deserve high praise. One of the gardens boasts undulating grassy "waves" where visitors can recline on beanbags beneath olive trees while enjoying breathtaking vistas of the river, the '25 of April' bridge (designed by the same architect as San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge), and the Christo Rei statue. The other garden boasts a Henry Moore sculpture that seamlessly integrates into its surroundings. Additionally, the CCB provides a bar and a restaurant, or you can opt for the charming café adjacent to the gift shop to savor some delectable rolls and pastries.

Tip:
If you're interested in participating in a workshop or attending an evening concert at this venue, please review the timetable. Additionally, consider planning your visit for a Saturday to take advantage of complimentary access to the Berardo Collection Museum, acclaimed as the "Most Visited Museum in Portugal" as of April 2019.