Maria Almira Medina Space I Story Time in Sintra (Casa das Cenas)

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Lisboa > Sintra > Sintra > Centro Histórico

Location:

The space is located at Rua Gil Vicente nº5, in the heart of Sintra's historic centre. Nestled within a block of narrow, cobblestone streets, it shares the picturesque atmosphere of low-rise houses clad in light plaster and covered with traditional tiles.

From the doorstep, glimpses of the mountains can be seen, and one can feel the daily pulse of the village, marked by the murmur of ancient fountains and the coming and going of residents. A short distance from the train station and main squares, the venue naturally appears on the pedestrian route for those exploring the old houses.

Origin and Memory

The name pays homage to Maria Almira Medina (1925-2014), a poet, pedagogue, and caricaturist native to Sintra. The house where the activities take place was inaugurated in 2009, coinciding with the re-edition of her poetic work “Madrugada”. Since then, the venue preserves manuscripts, illustrations, and personal objects that bear witness to the author's commitment to education through art.

The project was born within the cultural association Casa das Cenas, guardian of the Story Time initiative, created in 1995 to promote family reading. The connection to Medina's legacy remains alive through discussion groups, poetry sessions, and workshops that evoke her role in Sintra's cultural revitalization.

Atmosphere and Space

The interior maintains a domestic scale, combining whitewashed walls with exposed wooden beams. Shelves filled with children's and young adult albums line the main room, while graphic posters and original caricatures make up a small gallery that changes according to the programme.

Natural light filters through tall windows, creating nooks where one can browse books or simply enjoy the view of the houses. The hardwood floor and subtle scent of paper give the environment a welcoming character, conducive to listening to stories and sharing texts.

Cultural Programme

The agenda includes regular storytelling sessions, oral poetry gatherings, book launches, and conversations with creators. The activities prioritize active public participation, inviting children, young people, and adults to read, recite, or illustrate.

Seasonal events, such as the celebration of Maria Almira Medina's birthday in August, reinforce the community aspect and keep the author's memory alive. The programme also extends to graphic design exhibitions, highlighting the connection between word and image, a theme dear to the honouree.

Local Tip

For a more immersive experience, it's worth checking the cultural agenda in advance and attending a discussion group or storytelling session, truly experiencing the creative energy that continues to define the spirit of Espaço Maria Almira Medina.