“Gates that Speak – The Mitra of Lisbon”

Event type Exhibition
Date 25 Sep 2026 — 22 Dec 2026
Audience Adults
Venue Lisboa Social Mitra
black-and-white photograph of a group of people at the former MITRA

Appointments/Information

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  • No appointment required.

The Lisbon Holy House of Mercy is organising the exhibition “Gates that Speak – The Mitra of Lisbon”, a journey through the history of the former Hostel of Mitra and the evolution of social support services aimed at the most vulnerable members of society.

Dedicated to the history and transformation of the former Mitra Hostel, one of Lisbon’s most significant social welfare institutions, the exhibition brings together historical documents, photographs, testimonies and heritage artefacts that help to recount nearly a century of history. Through this exhibition, visitors will be able to learn about the evolution of social support provided to the most vulnerable sections of the population and the different phases of Mitra’s history, from its creation as a centre for shelter and assistance to its integration into the Lisbon Holy House of Mercy.

Entitled “Gates that Speak”, the exhibition aims to preserve and celebrate an indispensable part of Lisbon’s collective memory, whilst encouraging reflection on the values of solidarity, inclusion and human dignity.

The project is the result of a collaborative effort involving contributions from various organisations, including EPHEMERA, Lisbon City Council, the Public Security Police and the Cascais Holy House of Mercy. Their collections, expertise and support were crucial to the realisation of this initiative.

Throughout the three months that it will be open to the public, the exhibition will be accompanied by a programme of cultural and educational activities, including documentary theatre, documentary screenings, workshops on making vintage toys, discussion sessions and an open lecture organised by Lusíada University.

Schedule

fri / sat / sun 10:00 — 18:00