Museu do Fado

The Fado Museum introduces visitors to the history of fado, from its origins in the 19th century up to the present day. Fado is Portugal's unique musical genre characterised by mournful voice and lyrics that speak of loss and longing, an expression captured by the Portuguese word saudade. Music is provided by the guitarra portuguese and viola, another type of guitar. The exhibition traces fado's roots and its place in Portuguese society by way of a rare and valuable collection of artefacts and memorabilia. One of the most recognised pieces is the canvas 'O Fado,' painted in 1910 by Jose Malhoa. The matchboxes emblazoned with miniature illustrations featuring early fado singers are wonderful. So too are the vintage guitars on show, many having belonged to some of fado's most famous musicians. After browsing the museum, you can muse upon your visit in the on-site cafe/restaurant.