The Museu do Dinheiro (Money Museum) in Lisbon offers a fascinating and interactive exploration of the history and cultural significance of money, from its earliest forms to modern digital transactions. Housed in the beautifully restored former Church of São Julião, near the Praça do Comércio, the museum combines historical architecture with sleek, contemporary design.
Visitors can wander through well-organized exhibits detailing the origins of currency, the evolution of banking, the role of money in trade and empire-building, and how currencies have changed over time. The museum boasts an impressive collection of coins, banknotes, and other forms of currency from around the world, including some of the earliest known coins and rare, valuable specimens.
Interactive displays and multimedia installations make the experience engaging for visitors of all ages. Highlights include the opportunity to mint your own virtual coin, examine ancient coins up close, and even step inside a real bank vault. The museum also delves into the social and political implications of money, including topics like inflation, counterfeiting, and the future of digital currencies.
Admission is usually free, making it an excellent option for those seeking a high-quality, budget-friendly museum experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a numismatics enthusiast, or simply curious about the role of money in shaping the world, the Museu do Dinheiro provides a rich and educational experience in the heart of Lisbon.
Visit Notes
I had some time to kill, and the museum was free so I decided to take a look. It didn’t take me long to get through everything as I wasn’t terribly interested. If you have extra time and you’ve done everything else or you have a deep interest in currency through time, then it’s a worthwhile stop.
The most interesting part of the museum for me was the basement, where they had an archaeological exhibit about King Dinis’ Wall. The wall was built in 1294 and stretched beneath the museum. They found many artifacts during the restoration of the church and they are on display with an educational video.
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