Carmo Archaeological Museum

The ruins of the Convent of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Lisbon were quite fascinating. I didn’t know that it was turned into a museum since there was also artifacts on display here at the grounds of the old church. However, it turns out that there was still more important artifacts here at what is officially known as the Carmo Archaeological Museum or Museu Arqueológico do Carmo. I thought that much of the church structure was ruined because of the earthquake. Turns out, that isn’t true. The part of the church where the altar was managed to survive and it now houses the archeological museum.

Upon entry, you can see the remains of what is called the exedra. It is actually in remarkably good condition. This is the only part of the old church which still has a roof. This part of the museum is indoors so it was a welcome respite from the sun. Additionally, inside is climate controlled so it isn’t as warm. Scattered throughout the museum are various artifacts. The largest artifacts on display are probably the sarcophagi which are on display here. Back then it was pretty common for high ranking people to have special sarcophagi made for them when they die. These people are usually kings and the high ranking clergy.

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