At the Lisbon Academy of Sciences, books are usually the stars of the show. But in December, they share the stage with the delicacy of classical music. It is in the heart of the Misericórdia that the grandeur of the historical collection blends with the atmosphere created when the lights go out and the candles are lit.
Amid gilded wood carvings, painted ceilings, rare books, and manuscripts, the Lisbon Academy of Sciences is preparing for a symbolic evening: “Candlelight—The Best of Vivaldi,” on December 18 at 9:30 p.m. The performance takes place just a few days before Christmas Eve dinner, a coincidence that invites us to reflect on the institution’s very origins.
18 December 2026 21:30 + more dates
Academia das Ciências de Lisboa
An academy founded on Christmas Eve
The Lisbon Academy of Sciences has been housed since the 19th century in the former Convent of Nossa Senhora de Jesus. However, to tell its story and explain this Christmas coincidence, we must go back to 1779. At the time, Queen Maria I reigned, and a group of intellectuals, led by the Duke of Lafões, decided to create an institution dedicated to the sciences, literature, and the humanities. And the date of its founding? Precisely Christmas Eve, December 24.
Although the first steps were taken at the Palácio das Necessidades rather than at the convent, the occasion takes on special significance with the arrival of the holiday season and “Candlelight—The Best of Vivaldi.” This is, in fact, the only performance before Christmas; the next performances will not take place until January 29, February 19, and March 26, 2027.
A Christmas gift set to the rhythm of *The Four Seasons*
“Candlelight—The Best of Vivaldi” revisits some of the Italian composer’s major works, including the famous Four Seasons—Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter—as well as “La Folia,” based on a theme with roots generally associated with Portuguese music and dance from the late 15th century.
Amid the echoes of string instruments and the soft glow of a sea of candles, this is a concert to celebrate Christmas—and also a gift to give, with the Candlelight gift card.
Useful Information
Address: Rua da Academia das Ciências 19, Lisbon
Dates: December 18 at 9:30 p.m., January 29 at 7:30 p.m., February 19 at 9:30 p.m., and March 26 at 7:00
p.m. Tickets: starting at €24
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