Category: Civil Architecture > Museum
District: Aveiro > Santa Maria da Feira > Santa Maria de Lamas > Valada
The Cork Industry Museum is located in Valada, in the town of Santa Maria de Lamas, municipality of Santa Maria da Feira, in the district of Aveiro. This region, historically linked to the development of the cork industry in Portugal, provides an authentic setting for understanding the relevance of this sector. The museum stands as a pillar of memory in an area that breathes the tradition and innovation associated with the cork oak and its precious product.
The foundation of this unique space dates back to the 1950s, through the initiative of Henrique Alves de Amorim, a leading figure in the region's industrial and civic landscape. Driven by his dedication to local development and, in particular, to the appreciation of cork, Henrique Amorim was awarded the Commendation of Officer of the Order of Public Instruction in 1953. His commitment culminated in the donation, in 1959, of a building specifically designed to house this museum, thus solidifying his legacy and the preservation of the cork industry's memory.
The museum's exhibition core is entirely dedicated to the fascinating history and complex universe of cork. It traces the journey from the cork oak to a wide variety of final products, unveiling the techniques and processes that have shaped this industry over time. The collections are notable for the presence of authentic machinery and mechanisms that were once essential in cork processing, allowing for an immersion into the practices and technological evolution of the sector. Each exhibited piece tells the story of generations dedicated to one of Portugal's most iconic natural raw materials, highlighting its economic, social, and cultural importance.
This museum space plays a crucial role in preserving the memory and know-how associated with the cork industry. Through its exhibitions, it promotes a deep understanding of industrial heritage and the richness of cork, encouraging the appreciation of a sector that is a pillar of the Portuguese economy. A visit allows for direct contact with the tangible and intangible heritage of cork, providing an enriching experience that combines the history of human labour with the sustainability of a unique natural resource.
Sources: https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Museu_de_Santa_Maria_de_Lamas
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.97754602753927,-8.57121715427728
Coordinates DMS: 40°58'39.2"N 08°34'16.4"W
Weather Santa Maria de Lamas
On-duty Pharmacy Santa Maria de Lamas
