Casa Jose Saramago: A Literary Journey in Lanzarote
May 21, 2025
I spent about 90 minutes exploring every corner of José Saramago's personal library and living space, feeling like I was walking through the private world of a literary genius. The museum in Tías offers an intimate glimpse into Saramago's life, with his books and personal items perfectly preserved, making it a must-stop for anyone interested in literature near Puerto del Carmen.
Step into the personal universe of a Nobel Prize winner, where 25,000 books tell the story of José Saramago's remarkable life. Discover the hidden world of one of literature's most profound voices in his own Lanzarote home.
Need-to-Know Info Before Visiting Casa Jose Saramago
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Casa Jose Saramago Address
Calle José Saramago, 2, 35529 Tías, Las Palmas, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain
Casa Jose Saramago Opening Hours
- 🕒 Tuesday-Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- 🕒 Sunday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- 🕒 Closed on Mondays
How to get to Casa Jose Saramago
- 🚗 By car: Located in Tías, easily accessible from Puerto del Carmen
- 🚌 Public transport: Local bus routes from Puerto del Carmen
- 🚕 Rideshare: Taxi services available from nearby towns
What is Casa Jose Saramago known for?
- Home museum of Portuguese Nobel Prize in Literature winner José Saramago
- Preserves the writer's personal library with over 25,000 books
- Offers insights into Saramago's life and literary work
- Located in the exact house where Saramago lived until his death in 2010
- Showcases personal artifacts, manuscripts, and original writings
What is Casa Jose Saramago in Puerto del Carmen (Lanzarote)?
Casa Jose Saramago sits in the quiet town of Tías, transforming a simple Lanzarote house into a literary sanctuary dedicated to Nobel Prize-winning Portuguese author José Saramago. This modest museum attracts literature enthusiasts and curious travelers seeking an intimate look into the life of one of the 20th century's most acclaimed writers. Situated just minutes from Puerto del Carmen, the museum preserves Saramago's personal library of over 25,000 books, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the writer's intellectual world. Tourists typically spend about 1-2 hours exploring the space, studying original manuscripts, and understanding Saramago's profound literary contributions. The museum draws around 15,000 visitors annually, making it a low-key but significant cultural destination for those interested in literature, writing, and personal histories. Unlike typical grand museums, Casa Jose Saramago feels deeply personal - visitors walk through the actual rooms where Saramago lived and worked until his death in 2010, creating an immersive experience that connects directly with the author's daily life and creative process.
Top things to do at Casa Jose Saramago
- Browse Saramago's personal library of over 25,000 books, exploring his extensive collection and reading interests
- Examine original manuscripts and handwritten notes, gaining insight into the Nobel Prize winner's writing process
- View personal artifacts from Saramago's daily life, including his writing desk, reading glasses, and personal photographs
- Watch documentary films about Saramago's life and literary career in the museum's small screening room
- Take a guided tour available in Portuguese, Spanish, and English to learn deeper stories about the author's life
- Explore temporary exhibitions that rotate periodically, showcasing different aspects of Saramago's literary legacy
Tickets and Pricing
Entry to Casa Jose Saramago is affordable and accessible. Adult tickets cost around 5 euros, with reduced rates for students, seniors, and children. Guided tours are available for an additional 3 euros. Tickets can be purchased online through the museum's official website or directly at the entrance. Group discounts are available for parties of 10 or more visitors. The museum offers free entry on certain days of the year, typically during cultural heritage weekends.
History of Casa Jose Saramago
- 1942: José Saramago born in Azinhaga, Portugal
- 2010: Saramago passes away in Lanzarote, leaving his home as a future museum
- 2011: Family begins process of converting the house into a memorial museum
- 2012: Casa Jose Saramago officially opens to the public in Tías, Lanzarote
- 2014: Museum receives official recognition as a cultural heritage site
- 2018: Expanded collection added, including more personal artifacts and manuscripts
Tips for Visitors
- Allocate 1-2 hours for a complete museum experience
- Photography is permitted, but without flash
- Audio guides are available in Portuguese, Spanish, and English
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the museum involves walking through multiple rooms
- Check website for potential temporary exhibition schedules
- The museum is wheelchair accessible with flat entrances
- Small gift shop offers books and souvenirs related to Saramago
Cultural Significance
Casa Jose Saramago represents more than a museum - it's a tribute to one of Portugal's most significant literary voices. The landmark preserves the intellectual legacy of a Nobel Prize winner who deeply influenced global literature. For locals and literature enthusiasts, the museum symbolizes Lanzarote's connection to world-class cultural figures and celebrates the island's role in nurturing artistic talent.
What are some interesting facts about Casa Jose Saramago?
- Saramago's entire personal library of 25,000 books was preserved exactly as it was when he died, with books still organized in his original arrangement
- The museum is built in the exact house where Saramago lived during his final years, and many of his personal furniture pieces remain in their original locations
- Saramago was so committed to his writing space that he designed a unique desk setup with specific height and angle requirements for optimal writing comfort