About National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia)
Set in a wing of the UNESCO-listed Jerónimos Monastery in Belém, the museum tells Portugal's archaeological story from prehistory through Roman and medieval times.
Founded in 1893, National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia) has been welcoming visitors for over 133 years. Today it draws approximately 200,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most-visited archaeology & antiquity museums in the world. Located in Lisbon, Portugal, the museum holds a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 2,200 traveller reviews, reflecting its enduring appeal to both first-time visitors and returning enthusiasts.
Why National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia) ranks #89
Our editorial ranking blends data from TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards, AECOM/TEA annual attendance figures, and coverage in leading travel publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Time Out, National Geographic and The Times. At #89 in our composite ranking, National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia) represents the kind of institution that rewards a deliberate visit — less visited than the mega-museums, but no less rewarding in what it offers. Key recognitions include: UNESCO setting.
Must-see highlights
With a recommended visit time of 1.5 hours, planning your route through National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia) is essential. Here are the standout works and spaces that should be at the top of your list:
- ◆Roman mosaics
- ◆Egyptian collection
- ◆Iron Age gold
- ◆Portuguese prehistory
Recognition & awards
National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia) has received recognition from multiple authoritative sources in the museum and travel industry:
Planning your visit
Opening hours: Tue–Sun 10:00–18:00. Closed Mon.
How long to spend: Most visitors recommend setting aside 1.5 hours for a thorough visit. If you are short on time, focus on the highlights listed above and consider purchasing a skip-the-line ticket to maximise your time inside.
Getting there: National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia) is located in Lisbon, Portugal at coordinates 38.6970°N, -9.2068°E. View on Google Maps →
Visitor tips: Given the size of this museum, comfortable shoes are essential. Consider splitting your visit across two days if your schedule allows. Check the official website for any temporary closures, special exhibitions and advance booking requirements.
History of National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia)
National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia) was established in 1893, making it a well-established institution with over a century of history. Over the centuries, it has grown from its original collection to become a major cultural landmark in Lisbon. With 200,000 annual visitors, it plays a vital role in Portugal's cultural tourism economy and stands as one of the most important archaeology & antiquity museums in the Europe region.
Other top archaeology & antiquity museums
If you enjoy archaeology & antiquity museums like National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia), you may also want to explore these highly-ranked institutions in the same category:
- #10Acropolis MuseumAthens, Greece
- #23Egyptian MuseumCairo, Egypt
- #24Grand Egyptian MuseumGiza, Egypt
- #31Pergamon MuseumBerlin, Germany
- #32Israel MuseumJerusalem, Israel
More museums in Lisbon
Lisbon is home to 3 museums on our editorial ranking. If you are visiting the city, consider combining your trip to National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia) with these nearby institutions:
- #90Calouste Gulbenkian Museum🖼️ Art & Encyclopedic
- #101Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga🖼️ Art & Encyclopedic
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia)?
Tue–Sun 10:00–18:00. Closed Mon. We recommend checking the official website before your visit as hours may change on public holidays or during special events.
How long should I spend at National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia)?
Most visitors recommend spending 1.5 hours for a comprehensive visit. If you are short on time, prioritise the must-see highlights listed above.
Where is National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia) located?
National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia) is located in Lisbon, Portugal. The exact coordinates are 38.6970°, -9.2068°. You can find directions via Google Maps.
What is National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia) known for?
Portugal's national archaeology museum in the Jerónimos Monastery. Key highlights include Roman mosaics, Egyptian collection, Iron Age gold. The museum holds a 4.5/5 rating from 2,200 reviews.
How many people visit National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia) each year?
National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia) receives approximately 200,000 visitors per year, making it one of the most-visited museums in Portugal.
When was National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia) founded?
National Museum of Anthropology – Lisbon (Museu Nacional de Arqueologia) was founded in 1893, making it 133 years old. It is categorised as a archaeology & antiquity museum in our directory.
