Nogueira da Silva Museum

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Museum

District: Braga > Braga > Braga > São João do Souto

Location

The Nogueira da Silva Museum is located in the city of Braga, integrated into the São João do Souto area. It is situated on one of the main arteries of the city center, easily accessible for those exploring on foot.

Origin of the Museum

The existence of the Nogueira da Silva Museum is the result of a significant legacy made by António Augusto Nogueira da Silva in September 1975, in favor of the University of Minho. Originally from a Braga family, António Nogueira da Silva distinguished himself through his philanthropic activities, having amassed an important collection of art and assets throughout his life.

This donation included not only the building where the museum is housed, but also the surrounding garden and the vast collection that makes up the initial acquisition, reflecting the taste and history of its donor.

The Building and Its Facilities

The building that houses the museum was designed by architect Raul Rodrigues Lima and was constructed in two phases, in the 1950s and 1960s. The size and design of the space allowed for the venue to host other cultural activities, in addition to the permanent exhibition area for the collections.

The complex includes a gallery dedicated to temporary exhibitions, auditoriums that host conferences and concerts, a photographic archive that preserves various important collections, and an educational service with its own programming.

The Collections

The collection of the Nogueira da Silva Museum is diverse, bringing together a remarkable set of pieces of distinct typologies and eras. It includes important porcelain collections, notably Chinese export porcelain, glass, and faience.

Visitors can also find a selection of furniture, painting, and sculpture, goldsmithery, ivory, and some tapestries and tiles. The collections offer a comprehensive view of decorative arts and painting, with pieces of artistic and historical value.

The Outdoor Garden

Complementing the interior space, the museum features a garden designed with French inspiration. Its flowerbeds, defined by boxwood, and the presence of magnolias create a unique ambiance.

In the garden, there is a baroque fountain, originally from an old farm in the Gualtar area, which adds a scenic element. Various works of art enrich the outdoor space, including ceramic pieces and rare 18th-century Dutch tile panels, in addition to a sculpture.