Museu Nacional dos Coches (National Coach Museum), Lisbon

The National Coach Museum, established in 1905 by Queen Amélia, was created to house a vast collection of carriages that once belonged to the Portuguese royal family and nobility. This collection, undoubtedly the most impressive and extensive of its kind globally, provides a comprehensive overview of carriage development from the late 16th to the 19th centuries, with carriages crafted in Italy, Portugal, Spain, France, Austria, and England.

Among the most extraordinary pieces is a late 16th/early 17th-century traveling coach once used by King Philip II of Portugal for his journey from Spain to Portugal in 1619. The museum also showcases several extravagant Baroque carriages from the 18th century adorned with paintings and ornate gilt woodwork. The most notable of these is a ceremonial coach gifted by Pope Clement XI to King John V in 1715, as well as the three carriages of the Portuguese ambassador to Pope Clement XI, constructed in Rome in 1716.

The museum's original location, the Royal Riding Hall of Belém, houses a select number of carriages along with early emergency response vehicles. In contrast, the new, modern location nearby features approximately 70 or more carriages of various sizes and functions. Detailed explanations are provided in Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish for each carriage, and interactive displays allow you to explore their interiors from different angles.

Why You Should Visit:
This museum stands out as the premier institution of its kind worldwide. The preservation, restoration, and effective display of so many carriages are nothing short of remarkable.

Tip:
Don't miss the older second building, located just a block away from the new facility. The interior is well worth the visit.