Category: Civil Architecture > Museum
District: Coimbra > Coimbra > Coimbra > Almedina
The Elysio de Moura House-Museum is located in Almedina, a historically and culturally rich area in the heart of Coimbra. The space is part of the former Santo António da Pedreira College complex, which houses the Doutor Elysio de Moura Children's Home, giving it a deep connection to the community and the city's past.
This museum honors the life and work of Professor Doctor Elysio de Azevedo e Moura (1877-1977) and his wife, D. Celestina Salgado Zenha (1882-1945). The couple dedicated a large part of their lives to the Asylum for Destitute Children, today known as the Doutor Elysio de Moura Children's Home. Their personal residence, built on the institution's own land, was bequeathed to the Children's Home after their deaths, demonstrating a deep commitment to the cause of children.
The opening of the House-Museum in 2016 was the result of efforts to materially restore the building and organize its collection, with the aim of preserving the memory of these important benefactors and their invaluable contribution to Coimbra.
In the House-Museum, visitors find the collections arranged to recreate the original environment of the couple's daily life. It is possible to observe the furniture that filled the different spaces, everyday utensils, and a vast personal library that reflects their intellectual interests. Also noteworthy are the scientific and medical research instruments, which refer to Elysio de Moura's profession as a renowned neuro-psychiatrist at the University of Coimbra.
The collection also includes their academic insignia and the honorary decorations they received from Presidents of the Portuguese Republic. A small but remarkable art collection, with works of painting, sculpture, photography, and engraving spanning the 17th to 20th centuries, complements the collection. Elements such as Dr. Elysio's medical instruments, D. Celestina's jewelry and clothing, and photographs of the children housed at the institution reveal intimate details and the impact of their work.
The Elysio de Moura House-Museum distinguishes itself by its continuous mission of support to the Children's Home it oversees. More than a space for exhibiting the past, the museum acts as a pillar for the present and future of the children and adolescents housed in the institution. The activities and projects developed at the House-Museum aim to generate resources that directly support the daily needs of the "Girls," perpetuating the spirit of solidarity of its founders.
This singular commitment makes the House-Museum a place where history intersects with an active humanitarian cause. The participation of the children housed there in museum-related activities, such as the logo design, underscores their deep connection and the vital nature of this project.
The museological concept prioritized the preservation of the residential character of the house, offering a more intimate and authentic experience. Instead of a traditional museum, objects are integrated into their original context, with minimal interference from identification devices. Removable brochures and support materials are used to provide information, allowing visitors to feel they are entering a space still inhabited by the memory of Elysio de Moura and D. Celestina, inviting a genuine immersion into their legacy.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 40.20699594907619, -8.427164206579507
Coordinates DMS: 40°12'25.2"N 08°25'37.8"W
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