The Lisbon Oceanarium is a captivating architectural marvel within the Park of the Nations.
Its unique design and connection to the ocean make it a standout attraction in Lisbon.
The architecture resembles a floating structure smoothly integrated with the surrounding water. It is accessible only via a mesmerizing footbridge.
Central to this architectural marvel is a massive circular tank. It holds an astonishing five million liters of seawater.
The tank’s design provides numerous vantage points for observing marine species, replicating the feeling of the ocean surrounding visitors.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Lisbon Oceanarium’s architecture serves as an invaluable educational tool.
It emphasizes the significance and vulnerability of our oceans. It also inspires visitors to advocate for their conservation.
Explore Lisbon’s stunning architecture with a 48-hour hop-on-hop-off bus tour, then dive into the wonders of marine architecture at the Lisbon Oceanarium.
Original Building
Oceanário de Lisboa showcases architectural beauty, harmonizing human design with nature’s splendor.
It’s situated on a pier in an artificial lagoon, often compared to an aircraft carrier.
Designed by Peter Chermayeff, the oceanarium mirrors his aquatic expertise.
Chermayeff is famous for crafting renowned global aquariums, including Osaka’s Kaiyukan.
Sea Building
In 2011, the Lisbon Oceanarium welcomed the Sea Building, a seamless extension that effortlessly blends with the existing structure and its surroundings.
It houses an auditorium, a restaurant and exhibition spaces.
The Sea Building’s exterior is a visual masterpiece, featuring ceramic pieces resembling fish scales.
These unique ceramic tiles make the place feel even more inviting and radiant.
Toni Cumella, known for restoring Park Güell in Barcelona, crafted this artistic masterpiece.
This architectural wonder unfolds over three levels connected by a central staircase.
This clever design allows for smooth transitions between the entrance hall, the basement auditorium and the upper-level exhibition area, which also hosts a cozy café/restaurant.
The café’s atmosphere is bathed in natural light, pouring in through the building’s exterior.
This transition from compact to airy design makes it feel like you’re part of the surrounding cityscape.
Embracing modern sustainability, the facade also incorporates a double ventilation system, ensuring thermal efficiency.
FAQs
What is the largest aquarium in Europe Lisbon?
The largest European aquarium, the Oceanário de Lisboa, is a world-class public saltwater oceanarium in Lisbon, Portugal. Designed by Peter Chermayeff, it features a stunning architectural design that blends seamlessly with its waterfront location. This remarkable aquarium houses over 8,000 sea creatures, representing 500 marine species.
Featured Image: Arquitecturaviva.com
