Visit Museu dos Fosforos (Museum of Matches)
Table of Contents
The Matchbox Museum (Museu dos Fosforos) in Tomar is an amazing place to go on a journey into the world of miniature matchboxes. This unique museum offers visitors an unusual opportunity to immerse themselves in history and culture through a matchbox collection. It presents the variety of themes and techniques used in the creation of these little masterpieces, from classic images to modern trends.
The museum not only showcases the creativity and skill of the artists working on the small surface of matchboxes but also reflects the historical and cultural aspects associated with the use of museum exhibits in various aspects of everyday life. This place will be a fascinating and educational experience for any visitor interested in unique art and creativity.
Tourist Information
The Matchbox Museum is an extraordinary place where every matchbox becomes part of a fascinating history and art. Located in the charming courtyard of the São Francisco Monastery, next to the historic church, the museum is an international collection of 43,000 matchboxes collected over many years by one man, Aquiles da Mota Lima.
The collection began in 1953 when Aquiles was traveling to Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation ceremony and met an American woman who asked him to pick matchboxes for the event. This event led to the creation of one of the most impressive collections in Europe. Over time, Mota Lima continued to travel and collect matchboxes from different countries until his collection became truly unique.
In the museum, you will find boxes that reflect the diversity of cultural events, historical characters, architectural masterpieces and world cultures. From images of Queen Elizabeth 2 to erotic illustrations, from socio-political events to world landmarks, each box tells its own unique story.
A visit to the museum is an immersion into the fascinating historical events of miniature art. Your eyes will marvel at the detail and skill of the artists who worked on such a limited surface. But the museum attracts attention not only with its collection but also with its atmosphere.
Each matchbox holds a piece of history and attention given by Maria Helena da Mota Lima, daughter of the museum’s founder. Her passion for matchbox art is evident in her stories and lively look at each box.
The best time to visit the museum is any time of the year. However, taking into account the conditions outside, winter opening hours may be slightly reduced. To maximize your enjoyment of this amazing experience, it is recommended that you check the museum’s schedule in advance and perhaps arrange a guided visit. This will help you uncover all the secrets and minute details of this unique place.
Interesting Facts
- History of the museum. The Museum of Matches in Tomar is a generous gift from the municipality in 1980. It was established on General Bernardo Faria Avenue, just a few steps away from the Tomar train station. It is a unique cultural artefact that is proof of the love of collecting cultural artefacts in the most diverse form.
- A unique collection. This museum is home to more than 43,000 match cases and wallets, as well as more than 16,000 labels collected by Aquiles da Mota Lima. It is an impressive collection that celebrates the art of matchboxes and provides visitors with the opportunity to immerse themselves in a world of philately amazing designs.
- Location and atmosphere. The museum is located in the historic San Francisco Monastery, which gives it a special charm and atmosphere. Apart from the amazing exhibits, visitors can also enjoy the beauty of the ancient walls and architecture of the place.
- Design diversity. The matchbooks collection presents a variety of shapes, sizes and styles. Boxes with cartoon images, embroidered details as well as exclusive designs from different parts of the world can be found here. Each item in this collection is a true cultural artefact that tells its own unique story.
- Lifehack for visiting. The best time to visit the museum is during its open hours. It is also worth considering that the entrance to the museum is absolutely free, which makes it accessible to all those who wish to enjoy its wealth and beauty in Portugal. When planning a trip, it is advisable to study the museum’s opening hours in advance and allow enough time to fully explore its collection\
Open Hours
The museum’s hours are as follows:
In winter, the museum is open from 10:00 to 17:00
In summer it’s open from 10:00 to 19:00.
However, it is closed on holidays on December 25 and January 1.
Tickets
Entrance: Free
Address
Address: Avenida General Bernardo Faria Tomar 2300-535.
How to get to Museu dos Fosforos (Museum of Matches)
The Museum of Matches (Museu dos Fósforos) in Tomar is conveniently located just a 7-minute walk from the city center. If you prefer to use a car, the travel time is only 3-4 minutes. It is also possible to reach the museum by public transportation. It is also possible to take a guided tour or use the train.
