Fighter Museum

The Combatant Museum, located in the picturesque setting of Belém in Lisbon, is a place of great historical and cultural importance that offers visitors a detailed overview of the Portuguese armed forces and their events throughout the 20th century. Inaugurated in 1993, the museum is housed inside the Forte do Bom Sucesso, a military structure dating back to the 18th century that has had multiple uses throughout its history. The mission of the Combatant Museum is to preserve and honor the memory of Portuguese soldiers, highlighting their experiences during various conflicts, particularly the colonial wars that have deeply marked Portugal’s recent history. Through its exhibitions, the museum tells the personal stories of the combatants, offering a human and often touching picture of their experiences.The visit to the museum begins with an overview of Portugal’s fortifications and coastal defenses, presenting a collection of weapons and military equipment ranging from 18th-century cannons to modern weapons. These objects testify to the evolution of war techniques and the constant need to adapt to technological and strategic changes.One of the most evocative spaces in the museum is the room dedicated to World War I, where uniforms, weapons, photographs, and documents illustrating Portugal’s contribution to the conflict are displayed. This section highlights not only the military aspects but also the living conditions of soldiers on the front, their letters, and personal diaries that offer an idea of the difficulties and sufferings faced.The section dedicated to the colonial wars, which took place mainly in Africa between 1961 and 1974, is particularly significant. Here, the museum explores the complex political and social context that led to these conflicts, through a rich collection of photographs, period films, and direct testimonies from veterans. The wars in Angola, Mozambique, and Guinea-Bissau were crucial moments in Portuguese history, marking the end of the colonial empire and deeply influencing the country’s society and politics.Another highlight of the museum is the outdoor exhibition, where Portuguese military vehicles, artillery, and aircraft are displayed. This space offers visitors the opportunity to see up close these impressive vehicles, which represent a fundamental part of Portugal’s military history. The Garden of Peace, located within the museum complex, is a place of reflection and commemoration dedicated to all those who lost their lives in conflicts. The steles and inscriptions in the garden remind of the soldiers’ sacrifices and invite visitors to reflect on the fragility of peace. An interesting anecdote related to the museum concerns its location, the Forte do Bom Sucesso. Built in 1782 to protect the coast of Lisbon, the fort played a defensive role during the Napoleonic wars and World War II.