The Foundation

About The
Foundation

The Gaudium Magnum Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in Lisbon, Portugal. Founded in 2018 by Maria and João Cortez de Lobão, the Foundation is dedicated to supporting culture, education, and research while actively engaging in various charitable endeavors. It recognizes the significance of cross-cultural exchanges as a means of building bridges, stimulating dialogue, and fostering social justice, and it is committed to upholding Portugal’s rich tradition of cultural internationalism.

As an ambassador for Portugal’s historical and cultural heritage, the Foundation promotes dialogue between local and international institutions and supports projects that explore the country’s role on the global stage. It particularly focuses on the formation of Portugal’s cultural identity between the 14th and 19th centuries, examining its diplomatic ties and the circulation of models, ideas, and people.

Encouraging inter-institutional partnerships, the Foundation collaborates with museums, libraries, universities and research centers both in Portugal and abroad.

Mission

To promote a deeper appreciation for art and culture by making Portugal’s artistic traditions accessible to all, supporting intercultural exchanges and research that highlight the nation’s historical contributions to the global cultural landscape

Vision

We envision a world where cultural heritage bridges communities through educational initiatives that celebrate Portugal’s rich heritage. Through strategic partnerships, we lead collaborative projects that foster social cohesion and contemporary reflections on history, identity, and cultural legacy

“Gaudium Magnum means great joy. The joy of being Portuguese, with a mission to share the great qualities of our cultural identity, what Portugal has achieved over the centuries, and the legacy it has given us.”

Maria Cortez de Lobão

Sebastiano Ricci (1659-1734), *Artemis appearing to Alcestis and Admetus*, Oil on canvas

Meet the people
behind our mission

Co-Presidents

Maria Cortez de Lobão
João Cortez de Lobão

Executive team

Valentina Rossi, Managing Director and Head of Collection
vrossi@gaudiummagnum.org
Matilde Aires Mateus, Projects and Operations Manager
matilde@gaudiummagnum.org
Agense Marengo, Collection & Research
collection@gaudiummagnum.org