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Vasco da Gama Aquarium and its collection

Vasco da Gama Aquarium
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The Vasco da Gama Aquarium, located in Dafundo, near Lisbon, is one of the oldest aquariums in the world. It is a public aquarium run by the Portuguese Navy's Cultural Commission. The aquarium was conceived as part of the celebrations of the 4th centenary of Vasco da Gama's departure from Portugal on his voyage to discover the sea route to India.

Inauguration and Collections of the Aquarium

The Vasco da Gama Aquarium was inaugurated on 20 May 1898, in the presence of King Carlos I. The displays include marine collections that were amassed during the oceanographic campaigns that the monarch had undertaken. These collections reflect the king's pioneering work in oceanography in the country.

Marine Life at the Vasco da Gama Aquarium

The Vasco da Gama Aquarium houses five rooms and around 90 aquariums and tanks, which are home to more than 300 live marine species. In addition to this, there are thousands more species displayed in the museum on the first floor. This extensive collection reflects the rich biodiversity of marine life.

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PTAquário Vasco da Gama
ENVasco da Gama aquarium in Oeiras
PTAquário Vasco da Gama - Oeiras

Nature & Natural History Nature & Natural History Aquarium Animals

#4 Nature & Natural History in Portugal #3 Animal museums in Portugal #2 Aquariums in Portugal #103 Animal museums in Europe #25 Aquariums in Europe

#4 Nature & Natural History in Portugal #3 Animal museums in Portugal #2 Aquariums in Portugal #103 Animal museums in Europe #25 Aquariums in Europe
Vasco da Gama Aquarium
Rua Direita do Dafundo
1495-718 Oeiras

Images of Vasco da Gama Aquarium

Visitor information Vasco da Gama Aquarium

Opening hours

Monday
10:00 – 18:00
Tuesday
10:00 – 18:00
Wednesday
10:00 – 18:00
Thursday
10:00 – 18:00
Friday
10:00 – 18:00
Saturday
10:00 – 18:00
Sunday
10:00 – 18:00
More opening hours

Admission

We don't have information about the tickets & prices of Vasco da Gama Aquarium.

Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Vasco da Gama Aquarium.

Location & Map

Rua Direita do Dafundo, Oeiras

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Vasco da Gama Aquarium have been found.

Vasco da Gama Aquarium Reviews

Vasco da Gama Aquarium has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Vasco da Gama Aquarium, located in Oeiras, Portugal, offers visitors a glimpse into marine life. The aquarium houses a variety of aquatic species, focusing on both local and exotic marine ecosystems. Visitors appreciate the diverse collection of fish and marine creatures, with some tanks featuring interesting species not commonly found in other aquariums.

    Many reviewers note that while the aquarium is relatively small, it provides an educational experience, especially for children. The staff is often described as friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the visit with informative explanations about the marine life on display.

    However, some visitors feel that the facility could benefit from modernization and expansion. The limited size of the aquarium means that a visit can be completed rather quickly, which some find disappointing given the admission price. A few reviewers mention that some exhibits could use updating or better maintenance.

    The aquarium's location by the sea is considered a plus, with visitors enjoying the surrounding area and the opportunity to combine their visit with a seaside walk. However, accessibility might be an issue for some, as public transportation options are limited.

    Overall, the Vasco da Gama Aquarium provides a decent, if somewhat basic, aquarium experience. It's particularly suitable for families with young children or those with a specific interest in marine biology. While it may not compete with larger, more modern aquariums, it offers a pleasant outing for those in the Oeiras area interested in marine life.

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  • Aggregated rating

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