A place for history buffs, Museu Nacional de Arqueologia

Museu Nacional de Arqueologia is the largest archaeology museum in Portugal.
It is located in Belem district right next to Jereminos Monastery.

Its size is somewhat disappointing
however, if you are interested in Roman and Egyptian history
you will have a good time like I did.

It was started by José Leite de Vasconcelos in 1893
and won an award called "Genio Protector da Colonia Augusta Emerita."

Augusta Emerita colony was founded in 25 BC by the Roman Emperor Augusta
and don't forget to visit Museum of Lisbon - Roman Theater to get a thorough picture of Roman presence in Lisbon.

Teseo killing Minotaur

Know Roman myths? 

Then you can appreciate this place a lot more. 

In Egyptian wing, you can glimpse at 5000 year-long history through more than 500 pieces, 200 of which were brought from Egypt in 1903 by the last queen of Portugal, Amelia. 

One of the most important sections of the museum is a treasure room. 

Unfortunately that place is the only one you can't take a picture. 

Backpacks are not allowed inside the museum 

so you have to leave it at the locker room. 

So make sure you have a one-euro coin for the locker. 

locker and break room