Category: Civil Architecture > Museum
District: Leiria > Caldas da Rainha > Caldas da Rainha > Avenal
Located in Caldas da Rainha, in the district of Leiria, the Ceramics Museum is housed in a remarkable palace in the Avenal area. This urban setting offers a tranquil and inviting atmosphere, characteristic of the city which, for centuries, has been an exceptional center for ceramic production in Portugal. The museum is set within a landscaped garden that complements the architectural beauty of the building, providing a harmonious transition between the exterior and the cultural heritage it houses.
The experience at the Ceramics Museum begins long before exploring its collections, as the building itself is a central piece of Caldas' legacy. Housed in what was the Palacete Barão do Paço, a stately residence from the late 19th century, this site is a notable example of the architecture of the era, with influences from the Romantic style. The palace, with its decorative details and intrinsic history, invites immersion into a period of great artistic and social effervescence in the region.
The collection of the Ceramics Museum is a comprehensive testament to the pottery tradition of Caldas da Rainha, covering a period from the 17th century to the present day. It is here that one can appreciate the diversity and mastery of local artisans, with a special emphasis on the production of the Fábrica de Faianças das Caldas da Rainha. The collection includes pieces of great artistic and historical value, illustrating the different techniques, styles, and aesthetic trends that marked Portuguese ceramics. A significant part of the collection is dedicated to the genius of Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro and his family, whose innovative and distinctive creations, often with a touch of humor and naturalism, have become inescapable symbols of the cultural identity of the city and the country.
Visiting this space is embarking on a journey through the memory of an art with deep roots in Caldas' identity. In addition to the exhibited pieces, the site provides a rich context about the creative process, the evolution of techniques, and the economic and cultural relevance of ceramics to the region. The museum not only preserves the past but also celebrates the capacity for innovation and the continuity of an art that remains alive and relevant, reflecting the creative spirit of several generations of ceramists.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.3995715,-9.1304215
Coordinates DMS: 39°23'58.5"N 09°07'49.5"W
Weather Caldas da Rainha
On-duty Pharmacy Caldas da Rainha
