The museum building formerly served as a warehouse and office for the cod-liver oil distribution industry before its repurposing.
It houses one of the most important collections of Namban art, which depicts the arrival of Europeans in Japan during the 16th century.
The collection features an extensive set of shadow puppets from various Southeast Asian traditions, including Indonesia and Thailand.
The museum's interior design retains elements of the original 1940s structure, specifically the high ceilings and open-plan layout of the warehouse floors.
The Orient Foundation manages a specialized library focused exclusively on Asian studies and the history of Portuguese expansion.
The museum hosts a significant collection of 'Company Ware' porcelain, specifically commissioned for the European market during the 18th and 19th centuries.
The Museum of the Orient, housed in the historic Pedro Álvares Cabral Dock warehouse, focuses on the historical relationship between Portugal and Asia. Its permanent collection encompasses over 1,400 pieces, including Portuguese presence in Asia, Chinese arts, and Japanese Namban art. The building is a converted 1940s cod-liver oil warehouse that maintains its industrial architecture while providing modern gallery spaces. The collection is divided into two primary nuclei: the 'Portuguese Presence in Asia' and 'Asian Arts'. Significant items include shadow puppets from Indonesia, intricate porcelain from China, and textiles from across the continent. The museum is operated by the Orient Foundation, a private institution dedicated to promoting cultural links between Portugal and Asian countries. It features a library, a shop, and an auditorium for performances and lectures. The building overlooks the Tagus River, integrating maritime heritage with its thematic focus.
The terrace of the top-floor restaurant, which offers an unobstructed view of the river and the bridge.
Visit the top floor cafe for a panoramic view of the Tagus River and the 25 de Abril Bridge.
Check the museum website in advance for temporary exhibition schedules, as they change frequently throughout the year.
Allow time to visit the museum shop, which offers a curated selection of Asian-inspired items and literature.
Do not mistake the museum for a standard maritime museum; it is strictly focused on cultural and artistic artifacts from Asia.
Closed on Mondays.
