Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Italy
Luxembourg
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Museum · Elvas, Portalegre
Museu Militar de Elvas
Museu do Exército installed in a former military complex within the walls of Elvas, with collections of weaponry, uniforms, vehicles and horse-drawn carriages used by the Portuguese Army.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Museu Militar de Elvas
The Museu Militar de Elvas occupies a former military complex within the walls, in a city that for centuries was the main garrison on Portugal’s border with Spain. The museum belongs to the Army and is distinct from the section located at Forte de Santa Luzia.
The collections bring together weaponry from various periods, uniforms, communication instruments, military vehicles and a collection of horse-drawn carts and carriages used by the army, such as ambulances and transport wagons. There are also rooms about Portuguese military campaigns and about life in the barracks.
The museum helps explain why Elvas has so many walls, forts and barracks: the city was conceived as a stronghold to defend the entry into Portugal through the Alentejo.
It’s a visit that usually interests those who like military history and families. Check the opening hours in advance, as they can change throughout the year.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 to 1.5 hours.
Best time
Around midday, to escape the summer heat. Confirm the opening hours beforehand.
How to get there
It is inside the walls, on the east side of the historic centre, about a 10-minute walk from Praça da República.
Tip
If you have limited time, choose between this museum and the section at Forte de Santa Luzia: this one has the larger collections, the fort’s section shows the fortifications from the inside.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Museu Militar de Elvas
Is the Museu Militar the same as the Forte de Santa Luzia?
No. The Forte de Santa Luzia has its own section. The Museu Militar de Elvas is inside the walls, with the larger collections.
What is in the museum?
Weapons, uniforms, military vehicles and a collection of horse-drawn carriages used by the army, as well as rooms about military history.
How long does the visit take?
About 1 to 1.5 hours.