Military History Nucleus - Manuel Coelho Baptista de Lima

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Açores > Angra do Heroísmo > Angra do Heroísmo > Sé

Location

The Military History Centre, Manuel Coelho Baptista de Lima is situated in the city of Angra do Heroísmo, on the stunning island of Terceira, in the Azores. It is located in the historic Sé area, a pulsating heart of the city that is, in itself, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its position is integrated into an urban fabric of great architectural and historical value, where paved streets and traditional buildings tell centuries of history, offering an immersive environment that evokes the glorious past of the Azorean capital.

Angra do Heroísmo, with its protected bay and unique urban layout, was a crucial strategic point in the Atlantic, and the location of this centre reflects the city's importance over the centuries. The space is integrated into the urban fabric, accessible and in harmony with the civil architecture that characterizes this part of the city.

Collection and Historical Legacy

This Military History Centre is dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of heritage related to military presence and action in the Azores, and particularly in Angra do Heroísmo. It functions as a repository of the region's military memory, allowing for an in-depth understanding of the events, figures, and evolutions that shaped defence and military strategy in the archipelago.

Inside, visitors can find a variety of artefacts, documents, and elements that illustrate local and national military history. The objects on display, whether they be weaponry, uniforms, decorations, or maps, contribute to outlining the evolution of the armed forces and their role in the life and defence of the islands over time. It is a space of knowledge that invites reflection on the impact of military history on Azorean identity.

Architecture and Character of the Space

Categorized as civil architecture and functioning as a museum, the building housing the Military History Centre, Manuel Coelho Baptista de Lima reflects the style and construction tradition of Angra do Heroísmo. Its structure and architectural details are intrinsic to the city's built heritage, contributing to the authenticity of the historical environment in which it is located.

The adaptation of the space for museum purposes was designed to safeguard the original character of the property, while providing the appropriate conditions for the exhibition of its collection. The visit allows not only for contact with rich military history but also for the appreciation of an example of the civil architecture that so well defines the urban uniqueness of Angra do Heroísmo.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt