Fado is a traditional Portuguese type of music the origins of which can be traced back to the mid 19th century. At present, fado is an artistic phenomenon of special tourist interest, since the so-called fado houses stand as one of the most sought after nightlife opportunities, at least as foreign visitors of Lisbon are concerned.
In order to learn all there is to know about the history of this musical genre, its evolution, its influences on other forms of art (cinema included), major fado singers and composers, as well as in order to find out about the importance of the fado houses for the preservation and popularization of the celebrated traditional Portuguese songs, the Fado Museum is a destination not to be missed out. The collection sheltered by the museum is complemented by the documentation center which can be visited on appointment only. The museum also organizes live performances meant to entertain the guests and to illustrate the emotional depths thematically explored by fado.
The Fado Museum is one of the major tourist sights of Lisbon. Holders of a Lisbon Card are entitled to important discounts when visiting this museum.