Aquário Vasco da Gama

Aquário Vasco da Gama is a marine facility in Algés with five exhibition halls holding around 90 aquariums and thousands of preserved marine specimens. The collection features approximately 300 different species and provides insights into the diversity of ocean life.

The facility opened in 1898 as a memorial to the 400th anniversary of Vasco da Gama's voyage to India, established under King Carlos I's patronage. The collection later expanded to document a broad spectrum of marine organisms from various ocean depths.

The collection reflects Portugal's long relationship with the sea and the scientific curiosity that drove explorers to study marine life in distant waters. Visitors can observe how these discoveries were carefully maintained and arranged to preserve knowledge about ocean ecosystems.

The facility is well structured with clear pathways through the various halls, making it easy to navigate the exhibitions. Visitors should allow time to explore all areas at a comfortable pace, as the collection is extensive and varied.

A former animal tank was transformed into an interactive space for young visitors, offering new perspectives on ocean life. This area demonstrates how approaches to marine education and engagement have evolved in recent years.