About
The Museu Paula Rego sits in Sintra, Portugal, a town of palaces, forests and hillside views just outside Lisbon. It is dedicated to the Portuguese-British painter Paula Rego, and it holds the largest collection of her work anywhere in the world.
The building itself is hard to miss. Its striking red, pyramid-shaped form stands out against the greenery of the surrounding area, and it makes a clear contrast with the older architecture found elsewhere in Sintra.
What to expect
- Powerful paintings that reflect Rego's bold, narrative style
- Past works that show how her art developed over time
- A focused visit centred on one artist, rather than a broad survey
Because the collection is devoted to a single artist, the museum suits visitors who already enjoy her work and those who want to discover it. The paintings are often intense in mood, so the visit tends to be absorbing rather than quick.
Around the museum
Sintra is a good base for a half-day or longer. The town's historic centre, its wooded hills and its many older monuments all lie within easy reach, so a visit to the museum can be combined with time spent exploring the area. Many travellers come up from Lisbon for the day, which makes the museum a convenient addition to a wider trip.
