MACAM's collection developed in two stages. 

In the first phase, which began in 1974, collector Armando Martins bought only Portuguese art, paying special attention to 20th century art movements. 

From the 2000s onwards, he decided to open up the collection to contemporary international art from the end of the 20th century, with a particular focus on the 21st century.

This exhibition, which occupies galleries 1 and 2 on the ground floor of the palace, is permanent, so as to guarantee continuous access to the relevant works of art history that characterise the MACAM collection. Occasionally, some works will be rotated.

Gallery 2 

In the second part of the permanent exhibition, the journey continues with works of contemporary art, in an approach organised by various thematic nuclei, in which art becomes a bridge between cultures and generations. 

In a dialogue between Portuguese and foreign artists, there are works by Thomas Ruff, Michael Biberstein, Pedro Cabrita Reis, Rui Chafes, Rosângela Renó, John Baldessari, Juan Munoz, Paula Rego, Marina Abramovic, Elmegreen & Dragset, Fernanda Fragateiro, Isa Genzken, among others. 

In this part of the exhibition, you'll find a multiplicity of artistic languages and media, such as photography, video and installation, which go beyond the traditional parameters of previous eras. Discover how contemporary art addresses issues such as globalisation and reflects new perspectives on our relationship with reality.