Maat

It’s difficult to draw the line between different creative areas and their expressions. 

Where does art begin and design end? How do the two relate to craft? And isn’t technology in many ways an integral part of both art and architecture?

In Lisbon, the cultural centre MAAT is home to three of the most important cultural expressions (regardless of how you define their interrelations). 

People come here not only to take part in the exhibitions, but to experience the shapes and spaces of MAAT itself, as it invites visitors to also enjoy the outdoor spaces and to spend time either in the sun or resting in the cool shade.

Designed by Amanda Levete Architects, the site encompasses not only the newly constructed building, completed in 2021, but also the Central Tejo Power Station, considered one of Portugal’s most prominent examples of early 20th century industrial architecture. 

There are also other interconnections with Portuguese history hidden in plain sight in the architecture, such as the three-dimensional glazed tiles that adorn the façade, which allude to Portugal’s proud ceramic tradition. 

The main building, which is the centre’s centrepiece, makes good use of both its interiors and exteriors. The rooftop is a popular viewpoint, while the restaurant has a roofed terrace for days when the sun is too intense (or for when it just won’t stop raining). 

Indoors is a vast exhibition space, lowered into the ground and reached via a large, elegant staircase. A particularly nice touch is the restrooms, sleek, cool, and with what is apparently (judging by the number of people who come here for a photo-op) a very Instagram-friendly design.

For those not in the mood to take in a whole exhibition, it might be enough to simply walk around the building, viewing it from different perspectives and simply relaxing in one of its many nooks. MAAT is a place where one can spend hours without becoming bored.

 It is located on the banks of the river Tagus in the Belém district, from which many of the famous Portuguese explorers departed, hoping to discover the secrets of distant and faraway places. 

Today, Belém is home to many museums and points of cultural interest, and it’s easy to spend a whole day here, taking in the sights, exploring the exhibitions, and learning about Portuguese history. 

In a short period of time, MAAT has become an integral part of Lisbon, a place to visit, meeting up with friends or simply enjoying the architecture.  

MAAT

Lisbon, Portugal