Museu dos Fósforos

Tomar


This museum, reached via the lovely courtyard of the Convento de São Francisco, contains Europe’s largest collection of matchboxes. Amassed by local ‘phillumenist’ Aquiles da Mota Lima, the 43,000-plus matchboxes from 127 countries around the world depict everything from bullfighters to bathing beauties, dinosaurs and French cuisine.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Tomar attractions

1. Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes

0.17 MILES

These bucolic 39-hectare gardens – linked to the Convento de Cristo – were founded by the Order of Christ and once served as a contemplative space and…

2. Museu Luso-Hebraico Abraham Zacuto

0.27 MILES

On a charming cobbled lane in the old town, you’ll find the country’s best-preserved medieval synagogue. Built between 1430 and 1460, it was used for only…

3. Igreja de São João Baptista

0.29 MILES

The old town’s most striking church faces Praça da República, itself an eye-catching ensemble of 17th-century buildings alive with the echo of cooing…

4. Núcleo De Arte Contemporânea

0.38 MILES

This modern museum showcases the work of 20th-century modernists and surrealists as well as contemporary artists from all over Portugal.

5. Convento de Cristo

0.39 MILES

Wrapped in splendour and mystery, the Knights Templar held enormous power in Portugal from the 12th to 16th centuries, and largely bankrolled the Age of…

6. Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Conceição

0.45 MILES

Downhill from the monastery is this strikingly simple Renaissance chapel in a lovely position. It’s attributed to Diogo de Torralva, architect of the…

7. Aqueduto de Pegões

0.85 MILES

This astonishing aqueduct, striding towards the monastery from the northwest, was built between 1593 and 1613 to supply water to thirsty monks. Its 180…