How a Portuguese entrepreneur turned an 18th-century palace into a private museum

The Museu de Arte Contemporânea Armando Martins (Macam) in Lisbon is set to open on March 22, marking 51 years since its founder purchased his first artwork. Housed in a renovated 18th-century palace, the museum will feature a 600-piece collection and aims to enhance community engagement with art. The project faced numerous challenges over two decades, from initial grand plans to ongoing renovations. To ensure financial sustainability, a hotel alongside the museum will display art, with commissioned works by notable contemporary artists enhancing the space.

"It has always been my understanding that an art collection shouldn't just be used to decorate a house, or be hidden away in a warehouse; the ultimate goal is for it to be displayed for the service and enjoyment of the community."

"The project has taken nearly 20 years to bring to fruition, with plenty of setbacks along the way... The concession was revoked quite unexpectedly, pushing the project back and leading to changes in both location and design."

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