Museu Nacional dos Coches

NileGuide Expert tip:

A new building is being built to accommodate the entire collection and will be ready early 2012.

Description:

• This stunning collection of horse-drawn carriages is one of the finest in Europe, perhaps the world. The range of coaches, cabriolets and chaises is remarkable, with examples from Portugal, France, Italy, Austria and Spain spanning three centuries. While decorative, some of the vehicles on display are fairly humble in appearance. Most however are truly astonishing in their design, especially the ceremonial carriages that feature magnificent gilt carved woodwork, gold brocade, satin, and red silk velvet. Exemplifying this sumptuous craftsmanship is the coach built in 1716 for the Marquês de Abrantes, the Portuguese ambassador to Pope Clement XI. Another outstanding example is the 1777 carriage built for the marriage of Maria Francisca, sister of Queen Maria I, to her nephew Prince José. The exterior features carved Rococo woodwork and paintings attributed to Pedro Alexandrino de Carvalho. The collection is currently housed in the east wing of the Palácio de Belém, formerly a riding school. © NileGuide2011
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  The National Coach Museum is the most popular museum in Lisbon. It is located in the area of Belém, a neighborhood with pretty gardens. In this museum, you will see coaches, carriages and chairs from the Royal House and noble houses. Uniforms and equestrian pieces are also housed in this old Royal Palace of Belém.
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