Medical Research Institute, Portugal

This Medical Research Institute was once a hub of scientific advancement. At one time, cutting-edge research was carried out here. That was many years ago. Now it is merely another neglected and shutter building, one of many that line the streets of Portugal.

Behind these locked doors hides a fascinating treasure trove of photo opportunities. That is, if you enjoy lost places that are accompanied by a strong lingering “hospital smell” drifting on the air. This research facility is filled with an interesting collection of medical paraphernalia. Laboratories filled with vintage microscopes and boxes of medical slides. Test tubes and coloured glass bottles line shelves, filled with mystery chemicals. Cabinets with equipment and tools. There is also a green-walled dissection laboratory, which features two stone mortuary slabs.

I explored this location during my Portugal 2022 Tour, and it was certainly one of the highlights. As a student of science and frequent microscope user, I particularly enjoyed the old microscopes. I must admit, I did take a break from shooting to view some of the old slides (I just couldn’t resist!).

History of this abandoned research facility

This institute dates back to the late 19th Century, created by an eminent Portuguese academic in the fields of biology and medicine. After visiting biomed research institutes around Europe, they were inspired by the breakthroughs being made. It was time to create a similar research facility in Portugal. Several years later, the new hospital and research facility were completed and this site was relegated to disuse. It operated for over a century, protecting public health as well as directly contributing to scientific advancement.

Eventually, the facility was closed and active research moved to a new and more modern premises around 15 years ago. Nowadays this old building is locked, moth balled and all the inventory tagged. Perhaps one day it will open as a museum, but for now the future is uncertain.