Since ancient times, the sea has been a stage for military engagements. Ships can be used for warfare and, when that is the case, it makes sense to have weapons on board. On top of these, some commercial ships were armed as well, so that they could defend themselves from attacks by pirates and privateers.
The introduction of gunpowder in Europe contributed to the development of the ballistic artillery, which revolutionized warfare, both ashore and at sea.
The first evidence of the use of artillery in Portugal dates from the late Middle Ages. From then on, they have played an important role on board of ships, as well as in coastal forts defending against attacks from the sea.
The Artillery Collection held by the Maritime Museum is quite diversified, containing examples of different types of weapons used for different purposes and adapted to various contexts.