The museum offers a rich collection of decorative azulejos tiles characteristic of Portugal from the period up to the 15th century to modern times. You can also see ceramics, faience and porcelain from the 19th and 20th centuries. Visitors can also learn about the history of azulejos, the method and technique of making them, as well as the materials that are needed for this. It is also possible to follow the development of this decorative art in chronological order.
The museum was founded in 1965, and in 1980 it was given the status of a National Museum. It is located in the Madre de Deus monastery building. Visitors to the Museu Nacional do Azulejo National Museum can also see the sacristy, the chapel of Saint Anthony and Queen Eleonora, as well as the choir. In addition to permanent exhibitions, the museum also organizes various types of temporary exhibitions.