MAAT, Lisbon

(Image copyright Paulo Coelho)

On 5th October 2016, the EDP Foundation officially opened the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT), located on the Tagus River in Belém, Lisbon.

Designed by the award-winning architecture and design studio AL_A, the museum is a major part of the urban revitalisation of one of Lisbon's most historic waterfronts.

Housed within two buildings, MAAT is intended to focus on 'contemporary culture through a combination of visual arts and media, architecture and city, technology and science, society and thought.'

(Image copyright EDP Foundation)

The 38,000 sq. m riverside site consists of a sprawling public space and the gallery itself, with its undulating roof designed to allow visitors to walk over and under, as well as through the building, while offering panoramic views.

(Image copyright Francisco Nogueira)

Taking inspiration from Portugal's rich tradition of craft and ceramics, the complex facade is created by almost 15,000 three-dimensional crackle-glazed tiles that reflect the water, light and shadow. The overhanging roof also creates shade and is used to reflect sunlight off the water and into the building.

(Image copyright Hufton + Crow)

António Mexia, CEO of EDP Group and Chairman of EDP Foundation, said: “MAAT will restore the historic connection between the city and the water. It will be a hub for attracting people who come here to enjoy art and architecture. More than that, however, it will draw people from the heart of the city to the panoramic views along the Tagus estuary, a riverfront area that has long been neglected, but thanks to MAAT, will become a vibrant new destination within Lisbon."

Content and images courtesy of Ing-Media.

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