Momo Circus Museum

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Coimbra > Lousã > Lousã > Foz de Arouce e Casal de Ermio

Location

The Momo Circus Museum is located in the town of Lousã, within the Foz de Arouce and Casal de Ermio area. It was designed to occupy the premises of a former primary school, giving it a particular and familiar atmosphere.

The Soul of the Museum

This space is dedicated to being a comprehensive and dynamic place that promotes inclusion and sharing. Its essence lies in preserving the memory of the circus, with a focus on both the past, present, and future of this ancient art. More than just a passing point, it is a place for experiences, where interaction and education through the arts are fostered, keeping the magic of the circus alive for all generations.

The Collection and Thematic Rooms

Inside the vibrant and colorful building, there is a collection that captivates the visitor's attention. The museum houses a vast collection of circus objects, including photographs, posters, and various instruments. The space is divided into thematic areas, with rooms dedicated to Portuguese circus, international circus, and the relationship between cinema and circus. In addition to the exhibitions, there is a cozy corner inspired by clowns, a winter garden that functions as a multipurpose area, and a library with over 250 books on the subject, in various languages. Outdoors, visitors can find a ten-meter diameter big top and a stage that allows for open-air cinema screenings, offering a diverse range of settings.

A Journey Through the World of Circus

The museum visit is led by professionals who share their knowledge of the circus universe. Typically, the tour begins with the screening of a short black and white film from 1956, which contextualizes the history of the circus. During the visit, guides explain the exhibited objects and their importance. Visitors also have the opportunity to interact with the environment, with moments where they learn the basics of juggling, and where music and illusionism elements can complement the experience, providing an immersion into the unique world of the circus.

The Project's Roots

The Momo Circus Museum opened its doors on February 28, 2019, as a result of a protocol between the Lousã Municipal Council and the Marimbondo Cultural Association, responsible for its management. This project materializes a long-held dream of Detlef Schafft, who, after years as a kindergarten educator, dedicated himself to the art of clowning and founded the new circus company Marimbondo. With the collaboration of Eva Cabral, the dream of a permanent circus museum became a reality. The museum's vast collection is the result of several collections, notably Detlef's own, gathered over more than three decades, complemented by contributions from other collectors of different nationalities.

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