Building that was the residence of Guilherme and João Diogo Stephens - Glass Museum

Category: Civil Architecture > Building

District: Leiria > Marinha Grande > Marinha Grande > Guarda Nova

Location

Marinha Grande, municipality of Marinha Grande, district of Leiria.

History of the Glass Industry

, The glass industry in Marinha Grande began in 1747 with John Beare, an Irishman, and was developed by the English brothers William and John Diogo Stephens.

, The factory was revitalized in 1769 by William Stephens, who received support from the Marquis of Pombal and King D. José I.

William Stephens

, Born in Cornwall, England, in 1731, he moved to Portugal in 1746.

, He established the Royal Glass Factory with incentives from the Portuguese government.

, He introduced modern technologies and recruited specialists from England and Italy.

John Diogo Stephens

, Younger brother of William, he continued the management of the factory after William's death in 1802.

, He bequeathed the factory to the Portuguese State in 1826.

Development of Marinha Grande

, The factory brought economic and social growth to the region.

, Stephens Brothers provided social benefits to workers, such as medical assistance and education.

, The factory included a theater, schools, and other facilities for employees.

Glass Museum

, Opened in 1998, following a government decree in 1954.

, Located in the former residence of the Stephens, built around 1770 in neoclassical style.

, Dedicated to the study and exhibition of glass art and techniques.

Museum Exhibitions

, Glass pieces from the 17th century to the present.

, Historical documents, machinery, and glass production tools.

, Housed in two main collections: the Stephens residence and the Contemporary Art Center.

, Presents about 25 years of contemporary glass art.

Cultural and Educational Importance

, Considered one of the most important educational centers about glass in Portugal.

, Offers a cultural program and exhibitions of Portuguese and international artists.

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glass_Museum_of_Marinha_Grande_(Portugal)

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