The National Tile Museum is significant due to its unique collection of Azuleijo tiles, a distinguished art form in Portugal, key to its culture and architecture both locally and abroad. Founded in 1965 by João Miguel do Santos Simões, the museum is set in the former Madre de Deus Monasterydating back to 1509. The collection composes of pieces from the 16th to 18th centuries, as well as works by master painters and important Portuguese artists from the 20th century. The baroque church is decorated in carved gilded wood, paintings and tile panels.

Guided visits of the collection and monastery are offered. These introduce visitors to the historical evolution of the production of tiles in Portugal, the techniques, tendencies, influences and key painters, artists and architects whose work can be seen there. Workshops are offered for adults and children, inviting them to work with ceramics and tiles. This museum also includes a centre for ceramic studies, conservation and restoration of Azulejos.