GEGA, Gardunha Group for Studies and Defense of Cultural and Natural Heritage

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Castelo Branco > Castelo Branco > São Vicente da Beira

Location

The Gardunha Cultural and Natural Heritage Study and Defense Group, better known as GEGA, is located in São Vicente da Beira, a village in the municipality of Castelo Branco. Nestled in a tranquil rural setting, the village offers a serene environment and a genuine connection to the landscape of Beira Baixa. GEGA's presence in São Vicente da Beira reflects the region's cultural and historical richness, inviting direct contact with its identity.

A Center for Memory and Study

GEGA positions itself as a museum space of a mixed and multidisciplinary nature, designed to safeguard and share the vast cultural and natural heritage of Gardunha and Beira Baixa. It is a reference point for those wishing to explore the historical and ethnographic roots of this area, functioning as a living archive of knowledge and traditions.

The Archaeological and Ethnographic Collections

At the heart of GEGA, visitors will discover collections that narrate the deep history of the region. The archaeology section reveals vestiges ranging from prehistoric times to the Roman era, offering a perspective on the ancient communities that lived here. In parallel, the ethnography of Beira Baixa is presented through pieces and testimonies that illustrate the customs, trades, and daily lives of local people throughout generations. For those interested in deepening their knowledge, there is also a library with approximately 5,000 volumes, mostly dedicated to the History and Heritage of Portugal.

Safeguarding the Regional Legacy

GEGA's work extends beyond the exhibition of its collections, actively dedicating itself to the preservation and dissemination of local heritage. The group is committed to collecting and archiving old photographs and films, as well as recording various traditions, be they religious or profane. This continuous work ensures that the collective memory of Beira Baixa remains alive and accessible. The organization also promotes thematic exhibitions and the publication of works, enriching the understanding of the region's culture and history.

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