Monographic Museum of Conimbriga

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Coimbra > Condeixa-a-Nova > Condeixa-a-Velha > Ameixieira

Location

The museum is located in the area of the ancient Roman city of Conímbriga, integrated into the protection zone that encompasses the vast complex of archaeological ruins. It is located near the village of Condeixa-a-Velha, in the municipality of Condeixa-a-Nova. Its position within the archaeological site itself allows visitors to better understand the context of the exhibited discoveries.

Origin and Purpose

Inaugurated in 1962 as the Monographic Museum of Conímbriga, this space was later classified as a National Museum. Its creation was directly linked to the extensive archaeological research at the site, which developed significantly from the 19th and 20th centuries, especially after the ruins were classified as a National Monument in 1910. The museum's mission is to care for the archaeological site, present its vestiges to the public, and promote research on the ancient city.

Fragments of a Roman Life

The museum's collection consists exclusively of materials found during excavations in Conímbriga, offering an authentic portrayal of life in this Roman city. The permanent exhibition guides visitors through various aspects of daily life of the era. It is possible to observe objects of daily use, understand the dynamics of the forum as a civic and religious center, glimpse the richness of private houses (domus), perceive the city's commercial dynamism, and learn about religious beliefs and practices, including also testimonies of the presence of Suebian and Visigothic populations who inhabited the site after the Roman period.

The Splendor of the Mosaics and the House of Fountains

One of the highlights of the visit are the remarkable mosaics that decorated the floors of the buildings. A significant part of these mosaics is preserved in their original location, within the archaeological site administered by the museum. Particularly captivating is the famous House of Fountains. This large residence features extensive mosaic pavements covering a considerable area, important remains of wall paintings, and a beautiful central landscaped peristyle with a pond and water systems, recreating the ambiance of an elite Roman house.

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