Museu da Guarda

The Beiras


Housed in the severe 17th-century Episcopal Seminary, Guarda's main museum showcases an eclectic collection of archaeological finds, artworks and early books. Exhibits range from prehistoric flints to illustrated 16th-century tomes and contemporary Portuguese paintings.

In the adjacent 18th-century courtyard, the handsome Paço da Cultura stages temporary art exhibitions.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby The Beiras attractions

1. Paço da Cultura

0.02 MILES

Adjacent to the Museu da Guarda, the Paço da Cultura stages temporary exhibitions in a suite of rooms off an 18th-century courtyard.

2. Torre dos Ferreiros

0.05 MILES

A local landmark, this robust rectangular tower is one of the most visible features of the town's medieval defences. It was originally built to protect a…

3.

0.11 MILES

Powerful in its sobriety, this grey Gothic edifice looms heavily over the central square. The earliest parts of the cathedral date from 1390 but it's…

4. Old Town

0.14 MILES

A handsome quarter of cobblestone lanes and huddled houses, Guarda's hilltop centre fans out from Praça Luís de Camões. This sloping square is flanked by…

5. Porta da Erva

0.14 MILES

One of several city gates, the Porta da Erva was constructed in the 13th century. It was originally known as the Estrela Gate.

6. Torre de Menagem

0.2 MILES

This 14th-century tower, originally the keep of Guarda's castle, stands on the highest point in town. You can't go into the tower but even from the base…

7. Porta d'El Rei

0.2 MILES

This arched gateway framed one of the original portals in Guarda's vast defensive walls. It connected the town with routes to Covilhã and Celorico, from…

8. Castelo de Linhares

10.23 MILES

Visible for miles around, Linhares' 13th-century castle is a formidable sight, with its two crenellated keeps and impregnable walls. Not a lot remains…