Category: Civil Architecture > Museum
District: Castelo Branco > Castelo Branco > Castelo Branco > Centro Histórico
The Castelo Branco Embroidery Interpretation Centre is situated at a strategic point in the city, in Praça Camões. This square, also known as Praça Velha, marks a unique transition in Castelo Branco's urbanism, functioning as the boundary between the old Historic Zone, characterized by its medieval layout, and the more modern part of the city. Its central position offers a setting that reflects the very history of embroidery: an art rooted in the past, yet projected towards the future.
The space that houses the Interpretation Centre is, in itself, an element of great heritage value in Castelo Branco. Housed in the historic Domus Municipalis, this iconic building has had various lives throughout the centuries. It was once the Town Hall, serving as the seat of municipal power, later transformed into a prison, and more recently, functioned as a Municipal Library. The restoration of this emblematic property has provided the city with a dignified space for the promotion of its most celebrated artistic expression.
Castelo Branco embroidery, considered the ex-libris of the region, is an artistic expression of singular beauty and nationally recognized originality. Its presence in this land is not by chance; the Castelo Branco region has always stood out for its flax cultivation and the abundance of mulberry trees, essential for silkworm breeding. These historical and natural factors contributed to the establishment and flourishing of this art, which dates back to the 16th century, with Moorish and Spanish influences.
Characterized by vibrant colours, detailed floral motifs, and a complexity of stitches, this embroidery has transformed over the centuries. From everyday items, such as cushions and towels, to articles for special occasions, such as wedding bedspreads, the art has been refined, maintaining its essence and absorbing new techniques passed down from generation to generation. It is an artistic manifestation that reflects a rural identity, with a design that, although it may seem simple or naive, reveals a striking decorative effect and a very unique visual language.
At the Interpretation Centre, visitors are invited to embark on a journey through the universe of Castelo Branco embroidery. The exhibition route combines ancient artifacts with modern digital displays, offering an in-depth understanding of its evolution. It is possible to learn about the origins of this art, from flax sowing and weaving, through silkworm breeding and raw material extraction, to the evolution of embroidery techniques and stitches.
One of the highlights of the visit is the presence of the Castelo Branco Embroidery Workshop-School, a dynamic space where some of the most talented embroiderers can be observed at work. This workshop allows visitors to witness firsthand the skill and dedication that transform threads and fabrics into genuine embroidery pieces, perpetuating a living tradition of great cultural value.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.8252835,-7.4932818
Coordinates DMS: 39°49'31.0"N 07°29'35.8"W
Weather Castelo Branco
On-duty Pharmacy Castelo Branco
