The Casa-Museu Dr. Anastácio Gonçalves in Lisbon is housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building. Originally the residence and studio of painter José Malhoa, it was acquired by ophthalmologist and avid art collector Dr. Anastácio Gonçalves in 1932. The museum now showcases Gonçalves’ extensive collection of art, including 19th-century Portuguese paintings, Chinese porcelain, and European furniture, offering visitors a glimpse into the cultural richness of the past.
History
The building itself was designed by architect Norte Júnior and won the Valmor Architecture Award in 1905. Initially built as the residence and studio of José Malhoa, it went through several owners before Gonçalves acquired it.
Dr. Anastácio Gonçalves (1888-1965) was a distinguished ophthalmologist and a passionate art collector. His friendships with prominent cultural figures, such as Calouste Gulbenkian, influenced his love for art. After purchasing the house in 1932, Gonçalves filled it with his impressive art collection. Upon his death, he bequeathed the house and its contents to the state. The Casa-Museu Dr. Anastácio Gonçalves finally opened to the public in 1980.
The museum’s collection, which now comprises around 3,000 pieces, can be divided into three main categories: Portuguese and foreign furniture, Portuguese painting from the 19th and 20th centuries, and Chinese porcelain. Visitors can also admire Portuguese sculptures, European ceramics, and French and Swiss pocket and glass watches. In addition, watercolors and a set of drawings by painter Silva Porto are also on display among a number of other artifacts.
Characteristics
The Casa-Museu Dr. Anastácio Gonçalves features an irregular two-story design with three wings and a tiled roof. Notable architectural elements include a butterfly-shaped gate and a stained-glass window. The exterior is covered with tiles showcasing intricate floral patterns and historical motifs while the interior feels like walking into a sumptuous residential home. The art reflects Gonçalves’ eclectic tastes and propensity to blend various styles and periods.
Architects Frederico and Pedro George completed updates to the property in 1996 by annexing to the original building a new space that allowed for the expansion of the visitor’s reception area complete with a gift shop and an area for temporary exhibitions. In 2012, the museum became linked with the National Museum of Contemporary Art of Chiado.
How to Get There
The Casa-Museu Dr. Anastácio Gonçalves is a 5-minute walk from the Picoas Metro Station (Yellow Line) or a 6-minute walk from Saldanha Metro Station (Red Line). It is also easily accessible from Bus Lines 21, 49, 83, 90, 701, 720, 727, 732, 738, and 745.
Times and Tickets
The Casa-Museu Dr. Anastácio Gonçalves is open on Tuesdays-Sundays from 10:00 am to 5:45 pm.
The museum is closed on Mondays, January 1st, Easter Sunday, May 1st, June 13th, and December 25th.
Tickets are €5 for adults and €2.50 for juniors (13-24) and seniors (over 65). On Sundays and holidays, there is also free entry for residents in Portugal, children under 13, EU citizens who are unemployed, and visitors with documented reduced mobility. Admission is also free with the Lisboa Card.
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