Housed in a former convent in São João, the National Tile Museum is home to a vast collection of valuable azulejos, traditional Portuguese tiles. Gems include 15th-century Moorish tiles and large wall panels dating back to the 18th century.
Over the past 100 years or so tile designs have reflected various art movements, from Modernist and Art Deco to the more eclectic influences seen today. Some of the later styles are more elaborate, with entire walls depicting famous historical scenes and daily life.
The former Convent of Madre de Deus, in which this museum is housed, was founded by Queen Leonor in 1509.