Money Museum

The Money Museum, located in the heart of Lisbon, offers a unique perspective on the economic and social history of Portugal and the world through the evolution of currency. Inaugurated in 2016, the museum is housed inside the ancient Igreja de São Julião, a carefully restored historic building that adds an additional layer of charm and meaning to the exhibitions. The architecture of the museum is a perfect example of how the past and present can coexist harmoniously. The church, with its original structural and decorative features, has been integrated with modern and interactive exhibition spaces, creating an environment that invites visitors to explore and reflect. This blend of ancient and contemporary reflects the museum’s theme: the evolution of currency and its impact on society over the centuries. The exhibition path of the Money Museum is designed to be highly interactive and engaging. Using advanced technologies such as touch screens, multimedia projections, and interactive installations, the museum tells the story of currency from its invention to the present day. Each section of the museum is dedicated to a different aspect of currency, from the use of exchange objects in ancient civilizations to the introduction of the first metal coins, to the evolution of paper money and modern forms of electronic payment. A key element of the museum is the rich collection of coins and banknotes from different eras and countries. These objects are not only economic tools, but also works of art that reflect the culture, politics, and society of their time. Among the most precious pieces on display are some of the first coins minted in Portugal, rare banknotes, and numismatic curiosities that tell stories of trade, conquest, and change. The Money Museum also pays particular attention to the social and political aspects related to currency. The exhibitions explore themes such as inflation, deflation, economic crises, and the role of central banks, illustrating how these phenomena have influenced people’s daily lives. Through historical documents, videos, and testimonies, the museum shows the impact of monetary policies on national and global economies, offering a deeper understanding of the economic dynamics that shape our world. A particularly fascinating area of the museum is dedicated to the production of currency. Visitors can discover the process of coin minting and banknote printing, learning how these objects are created and secured. Through live demonstrations and interactive installations, it is possible to see up close the techniques and technologies used to produce currency, as well as the security measures taken to prevent counterfeiting. One of the most interesting anecdotes of the Money Museum concerns the history of the building that houses it. The church of São Julião, built in the 13th century, has survived numerous historical events, including the devastating Lisbon earthquake of 1755. After being used for various purposes over the centuries, including as an archive of the Bank of Portugal, the church was restored and adapted to house the museum. This architectural recovery not only preserves an important piece of Lisbon’s historical heritage, but also provides a significant context for the museum’s exhibitions.