São João de Deus Museum - Psychiatry and History

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Lisboa > Sintra > Telhal > Casal da Mata

Location

The São João de Deus Museum, Psychiatry and History is located in an area of the Sintra municipality known as Telhal, more specifically in the Casal da Mata zone. This location offers a more tranquil environment, away from the usual tourist bustle of Sintra's centre. It is situated in a context historically linked to healthcare institutions, which aligns with the museum's theme, giving it an atmosphere that invites reflection.

A Legacy in Mental Healthcare

This museum is dedicated to exploring the fascinating and sometimes complex history of psychiatry and the treatment of mental illness. Founded by the Hospitaller Order of São João de Deus, its existence is intrinsically linked to the long tradition of this order in the care and assistance of the sick, particularly those suffering from mental afflictions. The space invites visitors to discover how approaches and perceptions of the human mind have evolved over the centuries, from ancient practices to the advancements of modern medicine.

The Journey Through Psychiatry and its History

Inside, visitors can delve into a collection that illustrates the different phases of psychiatry and hospital care. It is possible to observe a variety of objects, medical instruments, documents, archives, and artifacts that bear witness to the practices, challenges, and progress in this field over time. The museum offers a unique perspective on how society and science have dealt with mental health, presenting a narrative that is both educational and designed to provoke questioning and understanding of human experiences related to this field.

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