The Fado Museum (Museu do Fado)

For over 200 years, Fado has evolved, absorbing diverse cultural and technological influences while remaining deeply rooted in the historic neighborhoods of Lisbon. It has been celebrated and cherished throughout the 20th century, leaving an indelible mark on Portugal's cultural landscape. The Fado Museum pays homage to the countless personalities who have shaped and preserved the essence of Fado, generously sharing their personal and collective heritage.

The museum's remarkable collections encompass a wide range of items that offer a unique insight into the cultural and ethnographic heritage of Fado. From periodicals, pictures, and posters to music scores, instruments, and phonograms, the museum presents a comprehensive view of Fado's evolution. The clothing and props used during performances, along with trophies, medals, professional documents, contracts, and licenses, all contribute to the immersive experience of exploring Fado's multifaceted world.

A significant aspect of the Fado Museum's mission is to bridge the gap between tangible artifacts and the intangible essence of Fado itself. The museum has embraced this challenge by adopting a museological approach that captures the elusive and intangible nature of Fado's heritage. By fostering collaborations with higher education institutions and engaging in ongoing dialogues with practitioners, including interpreters, musicians, authors, composers, and instrument builders, the museum remains deeply connected to the living tradition of Fado.

In line with its dedication to preserving the intangible aspects of Fado, the museum hosts a vibrant program of activities. These include regular temporary exhibitions, educational workshops, editorial and discographic presentations, as well as seminars and scientific research initiatives. By encouraging active participation and dialogue, the museum seeks to celebrate the continuous evolution and creative expression within the Fado community.

The Fado Museum's commitment to embracing the intangible nature of its museological object is reflected in its collaborative approach with Fado's universe. The artistry and talent of Fado's practitioners breathe life into the intangible heritage, allowing it to transcend time and space. In this way, Fado's immaterial legacy extends beyond the museum's physical walls, resonating from Lisbon to the far corners of the world.

Recognizing the importance of preserving and enhancing the museum's infrastructure, EGEAC EM embarked on a comprehensive project of recovery and valorization of the Fado Museum. Completed in 2008, this project encompassed vital aspects such as the restoration of the roofing structure and frontal coating of the building, the improvement of accessibility for visitors with impaired mobility, the enhancement of security measures through closed-circuit TV systems, and the expansion and renovation of the museum's permanent exhibition circuit.

The efforts invested in the revitalization of the exhibition circuit earned the Fado Museum several accolades in 2009. These included the prestigious Prize Essay and Disclosure from the Amália Rodrigues Foundation, the Honorable Mention for Best Portuguese Museum from APOM (Portuguese Association of Museology), and recognition as one of the five finalists in the category of "Public Rehabilitation Project" by Tourism of Portugal.

Today, the Fado Museum stands as a beacon, preserving and celebrating the essence of Fado, captivating visitors with its immersive displays and fostering a deep appreciation for this unique Portuguese musical tradition. With its continuous dedication to research, education, and engagement, the museum ensures that Fado's legacy remains alive, resonating in the hearts of those who visit and extending its emotional reach across generations.

The Fado Museum in Lisbon offers an experience that transcends mere observation, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the melancholic and soul-stirring melodies that have shaped Portugal's cultural identity. Step into this melodic journey and let the Fado Museum unveil the captivating allure of Fado, capturing the essence of Portuguese heritage in every note.