Glass Cradle

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Aveiro > Oliveira de Azeméis > Oliveira de Azeméis > Centro

Located in Lugar de Lações, Oliveira de Azeméis, the Berço Vidreiro (Glass Cradle) is one of the most emblematic places in the Entre Douro e Vouga region. The history of this place dates back to the 9th or 10th century, when Count Betotes built a chapel dedicated to Saint Michael to meet the spiritual needs of the farmers in the region.

However, it was in the 20th century that Lações became especially known for its glass production, thanks to the installation of the Centro Vidreiro do Norte de Portugal (Northern Portugal Glass Centre) in 1926. During World War II, the Centro Vidreiro reached its peak, due to Portugal's neutrality, but after that period, a decline began, culminating in the closure of the factory facilities at the end of the 20th century.

Despite this, glass continues to be a very important element in Oliveira de Azeméis, and the mold industry continued to grow, boosting the local economy. As a tribute to this history, the Berço Vidreiro project was created, which includes a museum in La-Salette Park, where glass is still traditionally manufactured. Furthermore, future projects are planned, such as a transport coordination center and a school center.

The region is also known for its historical heritage, such as the Castro/Castle of Lações, which dates back to ancient times and was once inhabited by the Luso-Roman peoples. Lações is also home to illustrious personalities, such as the lawyer Dr. Tomás António Fernandes and the counselor João da Silva Pinto.

To get to Lações, you can take the IC2, which forms the border between Lações de Cima (Upper Lações) and Lações de Baixo (Lower Lações). The region is accessible by car, bus, or train. Don't miss visiting this unique place and delving deep into the history and culture of glassmaking in Portugal.

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