Mario Coelho House-Museum

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Lisboa > Vila Franca de Xira > Vila Franca de Xira > Quinta do Bolhão

Location

The Mário Coelho House-Museum is located at Travessa do Alecrim, number 5, in Vila Franca de Xira. It is situated in the town's historic area, positioned near the Main Church. Its location provides a direct connection to the most traditional and characteristic atmosphere of the old town center.

The Bullfighter

This space honors the figure of Mário Coelho Luís, born in Vila Franca de Xira in 1936. Throughout a career spanning four decades, Mário Coelho established himself as one of the most important names in Portuguese bullfighting, performing as a matador in various arenas worldwide. Many consider him one of the best bandarilheiros, highlighting the mastery and art he displayed in his performances, often described as moments of great beauty and "poetry in motion".

A House with History

The House-Museum occupies the property where Mário Coelho was born. This house on Travessa do Alecrim was acquired by the bullfighter himself at the beginning of his career, using the first funds he earned in the arenas. Later, in October 2001, the house was transformed into a museum space dedicated to his life and work, resulting from a partnership between the Maestro himself and local entities.

Collection and Memories

Inside the Mário Coelho House-Museum, visitors can explore the trajectory of a 40-year career. The collection includes a diverse set of objects that bear witness to the bullfighter's journey, such as his emblematic "trajes de luces" (suits of lights) worn during performances, a collection of trophies won over the years, and a vast photographic record documenting the most significant moments of his professional life in arenas worldwide.

Bullfighting Legacy

The House-Museum serves as a point of contact with a significant part of bullfighting history, particularly relevant to the Ribatejo region, known for its strong connection to this tradition. The space offers an opportunity to understand the cultural importance of this practice through the life and legacy of one of its most notable protagonists, Mário Coelho, allowing visitors to learn about his journey and the impact he had on the bullfighting world.

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