Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation

Established in 1956 as a Portuguese foundation for the whole of humanity, the Foundation’s original purpose focused on fostering knowledge and raising the quality of life of persons throughout the fields of the arts, charity, science and education. Bequeathed by the last will and testament of Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian, the Foundation is of perpetual duration and undertakes its activities structured around its headquarters in Lisbon (Portugal) and its delegations in Paris (France) and London (the United Kingdom).

It is an international foundation, based in Portugal, which promotes the development of individuals and organisations, through art, science, education, and charity, for a more equitable and sustainable society. It promotes wider access to culture, and the transformational power of art in the development of people and societies, as well as contributing to reducing inequalities in access to education and care for the most vulnerable. They also promote knowledge, scientific research, and greater participation and involvement of citizens and civil society in building more sustainable communities.

The Foundation includes a museum, an arts centre, an orchestra and choir, an art library and archive, and a scientific research institute. The Foundation also develops programmes and projects and supports, through scholarships and grants, social institutions and organisations in Portugal, the United Kingdom and France, as well as in Portuguese-speaking African countries (PALOP) and in the Armenian communities.