Category: Civil Architecture > Museum
District: Castelo Branco > Fundão > Valverde > União do Grande Fundão
The D. João Oliveira Matos Museum is located in Valverde, one of the localities that make up the União do Grande Fundão, in the municipality of Fundão. Situated on a street that now bears the bishop's own name, the museum is naturally integrated into the urban fabric of the village, reflecting its origin as a traditional dwelling. The surroundings are characteristic of small villages in Beira Interior, with a peaceful atmosphere and landscapes that suggest contact with the region's nature.
This museum space is dedicated to the memory of D. João de Oliveira Matos, a notable figure born in this very house in 1879 and who passed away in 1962. His life was marked by a deep commitment to social and spiritual causes. He served as Auxiliary Bishop of Guarda from 1922 and, two years later, founded the League of the Servants of Jesus (Liga dos Servos de Jesus). Through this work, D. João de Oliveira Matos established several houses across the country, including a workshop-school, and tirelessly dedicated himself to the education and support of the most vulnerable, creating educational centers, shelters, and children's colonies.
The House-Museum offers visitors a journey through the life of D. João de Oliveira Matos. The carefully selected collection on display illustrates the different phases of his existence, from his childhood in his birthplace to his role as Bishop and founder of the League of the Servants of Jesus (Liga dos Servos de Jesus). Every object and document present in the museum contributes to unveiling the scope of his welfare and educational work, allowing for a deeper understanding of the impact this prelate had on the lives of many needy communities and families.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.1513614,-7.4732309
Coordinates DMS: 40°09'4.9"N 07°28'23.6"W