National Coach Museum

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The National Coach Museum (Portuguese: Museu Nacional dos Coches) in Lisbon, Portugal, offers visitors a captivating journey through the history of transportation and royal pomp. Its collection, spanning from the late 16th century to the early 19th century, showcases the evolution of carriages from various European countries, each reflecting the artistic styles and technological advancements of their time.

Among the museum’s treasures is the late 16th- or early 17th-century travelling carriage used by King Philip II of Portugal (Philip III of Spain) during his journey from Spain to Portugal in 1619. This carriage stands as a testament to the luxurious and intricate craftsmanship of the era, adorned with intricate detailing and emblematic of royal prestige.

The ceremonial coach that Pope Clement XI gave to King John V in 1715 is one of the highlights of the collection. This opulent carriage, with its baroque design and flamboyant golden woodwork, symbolises the close diplomatic ties between Portugal and the Vatican during the early 18th century.

Additionally, the museum boasts several baroque 18th-century carriages, richly ornamented with paintings and elaborate woodwork. Among these is a set of three coaches commissioned in Rome in 1716 for the Portuguese ambassador to Pope Clement XI, exemplifying the grandeur and elegance of the period’s aristocratic lifestyle.

The museum’s relocation to a new facility near the Picadeiro Real in 2015 has provided visitors with an enhanced experience, allowing for better preservation and display of its remarkable collection. However, the original museum area, located within the historic Royal Riding Hall of Belém, still offers a glimpse into the past with its display of six coaches and other related exhibits.

Furthermore, the museum extends its reach beyond Lisbon, with a portion of its collection housed in the Ducal Palace of Vila Viçosa in southern Portugal. In a different historical setting and amidst the splendor of the palace’s grounds and architecture, this satellite location gives visitors the chance to explore the museum’s treasures.

Overall, the National Coach Museum stands as a testament to Portugal’s rich cultural heritage and its enduring fascination with the artistry and craftsmanship of the past. With its unparalleled collection of vintage carriages and historical artefacts, it continues to captivate and inspire visitors from around the world.

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