The Marquis of Pombal created the Royal Factory of the ‘Junqueira Cordoaria’ in 1771. The project is the work of architect Reinaldo Manuel dos Santos and its construction began at the end of the 18^th century. This was where cables, ropes of sisal, sails and other equipment for ships was made. In order to meet the particular demands of this activity, an elongated building, with one of the longest façades in Lisbon was built. 

This national monument is thus one of the most remarkable examples of industrial architecture of the 18^th century. 

With shared concession between the Lisbon city council and the navy, the Cordoaria has become the venue par excellence for large temporary exhibitions.