The Belém Cultural Centre, also known as the BCC, is one of Portugal’s most important cultural destinations. The BCC is a true testament to the enduring power of art and culture.
The BCC, designed by Italian architects Gregotti and Risco, won an international competition in 1988 and features a modernist style that blends in with the monuments of Belém. Initially built to host the Portuguese presidency of the European Union in 1992, it quickly became one of the country’s main cultural hubs. Its main auditorium, with a capacity for around 1,500 people, welcomes internationally renowned artists and companies. On the upper terrace is the Olive Garden, a little-known green space overlooking the river.
Since its opening in 1993, the BCC has played a key role in promoting culture and the arts in Portugal, certainly due to its diverse programming that covers music, dance, theatre, cinema, visual arts and much more.
There are spaces for everything
Three of the five modules initially planned are built in the BCC:
- Congress and Meeting Centre;
- Performance Centre, consisting of three rooms;
- Exhibition Centre.
First of all, there is the Congress and Meeting Centre. It has sophisticated, high-quality equipment and welcomes congresses and meetings of any nature and size. In addition, the space also includes general operating services, several stores, a restaurant, two bars and two garages open to users.
The Performance Centre consists of three rooms (the large auditorium, the small auditorium and the rehearsal room) equipped to accommodate various types of performances, from cinema to opera, from ballet to theatre, among others.
Finally, the Exhibition Centre is divided into exhibition areas distributed across four galleries showcasing exhibitions on visual arts, architecture, design and photography. This module also features several stores, a cafeteria and a space for the treatment and storage of art pieces. Between 2007 and 2022, it housed the Berardo Museum.
Tips for visiting the BCC
1. Check the updated programme: Before your visit, check the BCC’s programme to see what exhibitions and events are scheduled.
2. Book in advance: Some exhibitions and events at the BCC may require advance booking. Make sure to book ahead to guarantee your entry.
3. Explore the surroundings: In addition to the BCC itself, the Belém area offers a variety of tourist monuments, such as the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries.
4. Try the local cuisine: Don’t miss the famous pastel de Belém. Visit the factory and follow the tradition!
The Belém Cultural Centre plays an important role in the local community, not only as a cultural destination, but also as a centre for education and inclusion.
As a result, it offers a variety of educational programmes and workshops for children, young people and adults, aimed at promoting art and culture. Take the opportunity to get to know the BCC up close and check the programme available on the website.
In addition, the BCC also contributes to the local economy, attracting tourists and generating jobs in the cultural sector.
We invite you to be enchanted by the wonderful architecture of this cultural icon, as you sail along the calm waters of the Tagus.
