Museu Calouste Gulbenkian, Lisbon

Honestly, before coming to Lisbon I had never heard of this man or this museum. I am so very glad that I hove now had that pleasure. We took a taxi from out hotel to this museum after doing just a little reading up. The tickets were reasonably priced, especially since we got the senior discount and only paid half-price. Normal entry fee is €14.00. The grounds around the museum are a garden worthy of a visit all on their own. We took a stroll around the grounds after our museum visit. The museum is quite large, with more than one floor. On display you will find jewelry, carpets, clothing, pottery , sculpture and paintings. I was awe-struck by some of the carpets that are hanging in this museum. The displays are well presented, with lots of explanatory notes. Since the inside of this museum has subdued lighting, it was necessary for me to use the 'flashlight' on my cell phone to read some of them. It was worth the effort My favorite piece in the entire museum was a rooster, which appeared to be made out of tile and or ceramics. It is a beautiful piece of art, especially since Portugal and roosters are an 'item'. I cannot really do justice to the life and efforts of the benefactor of this museum. Each person should read up on this on their own, to discover what caused this man to dedicate his life and his fortune to preserving these awesome works. I am just glad that he did this, and that efforts on his behalf continue to this day. My only issue with this museum is the fact that a lot of the art contained within is called 'Muslim' art or 'Islamic' art, which I take issue with. It is true that some of the artists were from countries that are now Muslim or honor the Islamic faith, but I just do not like labelling art as being specific to one religion. Art is art, and should be appreciated it for what is. The same applies to religion. Each religion should be evaluated on its own merits. Please, do yourself a favor when in Lisbon, and go see this awesome museum.

Both the art collection and the grounds on which the museum is our absolutely lovely. Count on spending at least three hours here and I recommend the cafeteria for its delicious food as well. The art collection is super eclectic covering the entire globe, and is of a very high-quality. A nice afternoon in Lisbon for art lovers.