Considered a hidden treasure within Lisbon, the Pavilhão das Galeotas stands before us. This pavilion offers a unique chance to explore Portugal’s maritime heritage. It is a purpose-built space. It was designed to showcase the rich history of the Portuguese navy. Its construction finished in 1959. The aim was to preserve a vital collection of life-size boats.
Inside the Pavilhão das Galeotas, prepare to be transported back to the golden age. This was the time of navigation and exploration. You’ll feel it as you enter. The Pavilhão das Galeotas belongs to the Marine Museum. It is located near Jerónimos Monastery facing the Padrão dos Descobrimentos.
As you step inside the Pavilhão das Galeotas, you’ll see the royal yacht “Sirius”. It witnessed many historical moments. It symbolizes Portugal’s power. However, the stars of the Pavilhão das Galeotas are the six royal galleys. They were built in the 18th century. They stand out for their grandeur. They also stand out for their beauty. Their state of preservation is remarkable. These ships once sailed the seas carrying noblemen. They are well-preserved. They are ready to tell stories. These are stories of courage. These are stories of the determination of Portuguese navigators. They ventured across the oceans.
One galley attracts special attention. It is the Bergantim Real. It is one of the oldest galleys. It was commissioned in 1780. The oldest is the Galeota Grande. It was built in 1711. King João V ordered it. It was for his exclusive use. It later served for the Prince of Brazil’s wedding. He became King José. The bride was Infanta Mariana Vitoria of Spain.
The Bergantim Real has 40 oars. You can count them. Seventy-eight oarsmen manned them. Each oar had two oarsmen. The bow oars were the exception. In 1808, it carried the Royal Family to Brazil. It transported foreign monarchs on official visits to Lisbon. The last trip was in 1957. Queen Elizabeth II of England made an official visit to Portugal. This Bergantim is living proof of Portuguese maritime splendor. It is very well preserved.
Besides the noble vessels, the Pavilhão das Galeotas displays traditional boats. They represent different regions. They also represent maritime traditions in Portugal. There is the valboeiro from the Douro River. Then, there is the netinha de arte xávega from Nazaré. You’ll see the moliceiro from Aveiro. There is even the whaleboat from the Azores. Each tells unique stories. They tell of the country’s culture. They also tell of its identity.
The Pavilhão das Galeotas tour completes at the museum’s end. Here lies a major piece of Portuguese history. You’ll find three seaplanes. Among them is the famous “Santa Cruz”. This aircraft played a crucial role in Portuguese aviation. Gago Coutinho and Sacadura Cabral used it. They completed the first flight across the South Atlantic. It was between Lisbon and Rio de Janeiro in Brazil in 1922.
Gago Coutinho and Sacadura Cabral were aviation pioneers. They became known for their bravery. You can learn more through exhibits. You can have an immersive experience. The Marine Museum has permanent and temporary exhibitions. Recently, a space opened. You can experience the sensations. It is like the 1st South Atlantic Air Crossing.
Visiting the Pavilhão das Galeotas is a journey of curiosities. You will learn about brave men. You’ll discover their courage. This will increase your pride in Portuguese history.