Ethnographic Museum of Espírito Santo

Location

- Situated in the parish of Santo Espírito, Vila do Porto, on the island of Santa Maria, Azores.

History

- Founded from the collection of Father José Maria Amaral, inaugurated as the "Ethnographic and Parish Museum" in 1972.

- Later, the regional government took over its management, renaming it "Casa Etnográfica de Santa Maria" (Ethnographic House of Santa Maria).

- In 1991, it became an "Island Museum" with its own structure and specialized team.

- Reopened as the "Museum of Santa Maria" in 1996.

Collection

- Notable for its collection of ethnographic pieces, especially locally produced ceramics, used in kitchens and homes, as well as in agricultural activities.

- Also includes ceramics from other islands of the Azores, as well as from Portugal and other European countries from the 19th and 20th centuries.

- The permanent exhibition "Clay, Ceramics and Everyday Life" shows the life of the local population, including agriculture and weaving.

Building

- The museum occupies a rectangular two-story building, with an annex used for storage.

- The structure was built in the early 20th century, with notable architectural elements such as the tubular chimney and the "bojudo" oven, typical of rural architecture of Santa Maria.

- It is located in the Protection Zone of the Parish Church of Santo Espírito / Church of Nossa Senhora da Purificação (Our Lady of Purification).