Lisbon Story Centre


This museum takes visitors on a 60-minute journey through Lisbon's history, from its early foundation (pre-ancient Roman days) to modern times. An audio guide and multimedia exhibits describe key episodes, including New World discoveries, the terrifying 1755 earthquake (with a vivid film re-enacting the horrors) and the ambitious reconstruction that followed.

The final room shows the events that have taken place in the Praça do Comércio over the years, from early arrivals at the city's waterfront gates, to the 1974 revolution and its less-illustrious days as a car park in the 1980s.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Praça do Comércio

0.06 MILES

With its grand 18th-century arcades, lemon-meringue facades and mosaic cobbles, the riverfront Praça do Comércio is a square to out-pomp them all…

2. Statue of Dom José I

0.06 MILES

Rising from the centre of triumphant Praça do Comercio, the dashing equestrian statue of Dom José I hints at the square’s royal roots as the pre…

3. Arco da Rua Augusta

0.08 MILES

This triumphal arch was built in the wake of the 1755 earthquake. A lift whisks you to the top, where fine views of Praça do Comércio, the Rio Tejo and…

4. Igreja da Conceição Velha

0.1 MILES

Completed in 1534 on orders from King Manuel I, Igreja da Conceição Velha is the second-oldest Manueline religious building in Lisbon. Its facade remains…

5. Museu de Design e da Moda

0.11 MILES

This Baixa star, set in a cavernous former bank, contains furniture, industrial design and couture dating from the 1930s. It was closed for renovations at…

8. Museu do Dinheiro

0.19 MILES

Pop into Banco do Portugal's money museum to see the stunning €34-million interior renovation of the once-mighty São Julião church (closed in 1933); and…