What the Lisboa Story Centre is
The Lisboa Story Centre is an interactive museum in Lisbon’s historic Praça do Comércio. Inaugurated in 2012, it was conceived as part of a broader initiative to revitalize the downtown area and enhance cultural tourism. The project was supported by the Lisbon City Council and various cultural organizations, with the aim of giving locals and visitors an engaging, educational way to explore the city’s past.
The centre traces Lisbon’s history from the Phoenician settlers around 1200 BCE to the Great Earthquake of 1755. It uses interactive displays, 3D models, multimedia presentations, and virtual reality experiences to bring different historical periods to life (Discover the Lisboa Story Centre; Visiting the Lisboa Story Centre).
The centre also serves students, researchers, and history enthusiasts. Its educational programs and workshops are designed to engage young learners and foster an appreciation for history and culture. Events, exhibitions, and cultural activities held throughout the year offer further ways to engage with Lisbon’s history.
History
Origins and historical context
Lisbon’s origins can be traced to a Phoenician settlement established around 1200 BCE. Over the centuries, the city was influenced by the Romans, Visigoths, and Moors, whose cultures shaped its architecture, culture, and traditions.
The Age of Discoveries spanned the 15th and 16th centuries, when Portuguese explorers embarked on voyages that led to the discovery of new lands and the establishment of trade routes across the globe.
The Great Earthquake of 1755
On November 1, 1755, a great earthquake destroyed much of Lisbon and caused the deaths of tens of thousands of people. A tsunami and fires compounded the devastation. The Marquis of Pombal led the city’s reconstruction, implementing modern urban planning principles that remain evident in Lisbon’s layout.
What to see
The centre’s exhibits guide visitors through a chronological journey of Lisbon’s history, with multimedia presentations, interactive displays, and virtual reality experiences.
The Roman era
The Roman-era exhibit explores Lisbon’s importance as a Roman settlement, including daily life, architectural achievements, and the impact of Roman culture on the city’s development. It features replicas of Roman artifacts, interactive maps, and multimedia presentations.
The Age of Discoveries
This exhibit presents the achievements of explorers such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan. Visitors can explore detailed maps, ship models, and interactive displays illustrating the impact of their voyages on Lisbon and the world.
The Great Earthquake of 1755
The exhibit covers the events leading up to the earthquake, the destruction it caused, and the city’s subsequent reconstruction. Visitors can experience a simulated earthquake and learn about the Marquis of Pombal’s role in rebuilding Lisbon and implementing modern urban planning principles.
Practical visiting information
Hours and tickets
The Lisboa Story Centre is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry at 5:00 PM. It is closed on December 25th and January 1st.
Ticket prices are:
- Adults: €7.00
- Seniors (65+): €5.00
- Students: €5.00
- Children (under 6): Free
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Lisboa Story Centre website or at the entrance.
Getting there and accessibility
The centre is accessible by public transportation. The nearest metro station is Terreiro do Paço (Blue Line), and several bus lines also serve the area.
The centre is wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps available for visitors with mobility issues.
Guided tours and audio guides
Guided tours are available in multiple languages. Audio guides are also available in several languages for visitors who prefer a self-guided experience.
Tips
The centre’s layout takes visitors through a chronological account of Lisbon’s history. Its interactive displays, 3D models, multimedia presentations, and virtual reality experiences provide different ways to explore the exhibits.
Nearby places
Nearby attractions include the iconic Praça do Comércio, the Lisbon Cathedral, and the Alfama district.
FAQs
What are the visiting hours for the Lisboa Story Centre?
See “Hours and tickets” above.
How much are tickets for the Lisboa Story Centre?
See “Hours and tickets” above.
Are guided tours available at the Lisboa Story Centre?
See “Guided tours and audio guides” above.
Is the Lisboa Story Centre accessible for visitors with disabilities?
See “Getting there and accessibility” above.
