MAAT — Lisbon's Riverside Nexus of Art, Architecture, and Technology

MAAT, the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology, is situated on the Tagus (Tejo) River in Lisbon's historic Belém district, at Av. Brasília, 1300-598 Lisboa, Portugal. Operated by the EDP Foundation, Portugal's largest electricity company, MAAT opened its main building in October 2016, complementing the adjacent Central Tejo power plant, which was converted into a museum in 2006.

The museum's location in Belém places it within walking distance of UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the Monument to the Discoveries. This strategic positioning allows MAAT to serve as a contemporary counterpoint to Lisbon's rich historical landscape, inviting visitors to explore the city's past and future in a single cultural itinerary.

Architectural Harmony — Old Power Plant Meets New Wave

MAAT comprises two distinct yet harmoniously connected buildings. The Central Tejo building, a former power plant constructed in 1908, showcases Lisbon's industrial heritage with its preserved red-brick facade and original machinery. In contrast, the new Galeria Oval, designed by Amanda Levete of AL_A, presents a flowing, wave-like structure clad in 15,000 white ceramic tiles.

This architectural dialogue between the industrial past and the contemporary future is central to MAAT's identity. The low-slung design of the new building, standing at just 10 meters high, ensures it does not obstruct the river views, while its reflective tiled surface interacts dynamically with the changing light of the Tagus River. The building received the FX International Interior Design Award in 2017.

Amanda Levete's Vision — A Public Promenade on the River

Amanda Levete, the acclaimed British architect, conceived MAAT's main building as an extension of the public realm. Its most striking feature is the accessible rooftop promenade, which functions as a public plaza offering panoramic views of the Tagus River and the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge. This space is freely accessible to all, serving as a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the riverside scenery without an admission ticket.

Inside, the Galeria Oval on the first floor boasts a 1,000-square-meter, column-free exhibition space. Its expansive, curved walls are ideal for immersive installations and large-scale media art, having hosted works by artists such as Olafur Eliasson, John Akomfrah, and Sigmar Polke. This flexible interior design underscores MAAT's commitment to showcasing cutting-edge artistic and technological innovation.

Exhibitions and Programs — Intersecting Disciplines

MAAT's exhibition program is characterized by its interdisciplinary approach, exploring the intersections of art, architecture, and technology. The museum hosts 4 to 6 temporary exhibitions annually, often focusing on themes related to energy, environment, and digital innovation, reflecting the EDP Foundation's core business and interests. Recent programming has increasingly featured AI and digital art.

The Central Tejo power plant building also serves as a unique exhibition venue. Its preserved boiler and turbine rooms provide a dramatic backdrop for contemporary art installations, creating a distinctive atmosphere where industrial heritage meets modern artistic expression. This blend of historical context and contemporary content fosters critical dialogue and engages the public with current cultural discourse.

Visiting MAAT — A Cultural Journey in Belém

MAAT is open from Wednesday to Monday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and is closed on Tuesdays. Admission is €11 for adults and €6 for students, covering access to both the main building and the Central Tejo power plant. The rooftop and riverside promenade are free to access. A visit typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours.

The museum is easily reachable by public transport: a 4-minute train ride from Cais do Sodré to Belém station, followed by a 5-minute walk. Tram 15E to Belém or train to Santos station are also options. Visitors often combine a trip to MAAT with other Belém attractions, including a stop at the famous Pastéis de Belém for traditional Portuguese custard tarts, creating a comprehensive cultural experience in Lisbon.