Melides Pottery Museum Nucleus

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Setúbal > Grândola > Melides > Saibreira

Location

The Melides Pottery Museum is located in the Saibreira area, integrated into the picturesque village of Melides, in the municipality of Grândola. This location benefits from the characteristic tranquility of the region, offering a serene environment. Its outdoor space provides a wide and relaxing view of the surrounding mountains, inviting a moment of contemplation.

The Legacy of Melides Pottery

Melides was, in times past, one of the pillars of pottery production in the region, with the activity deeply rooted in its history, dating back at least to the mid-17th century. Despite a period of decline between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the craft resurged, driven by the arrival of potters from S. Teotónio, and prospered until the 1970s and 1980s. The Museum pays tribute to this long tradition, highlighting the role of Francisco de Matos Almeida, the last potter who kept this art alive until 2007.

The Museum's Structure

This cultural space was designed to preserve the memory and techniques of pottery, integrating into the old potter's house, his workshop, and the original kiln. The building, which was once the master's home and workplace, invites discovery of the secrets of clay. Comprising five exhibition areas, it reveals the history and art of pottery. On site, there are also two ceramic workshops equipped with potter's wheels, where contemporary artisans shape pieces that combine traditional know-how with current creativity.

An Interactive Journey

The Melides Pottery Museum provides an enriching experience through innovative technological resources. Visitors can, for example, immerse themselves in a virtual reality that recreates the process of collecting and preparing clay, culminating in the creation of a piece. Tablets with augmented reality allow viewing the context and functionality of various exhibited objects, from the kiln to the púcaro (traditional drinking vessel) making machine. An interactive table completes the visit, offering information about local heritage and educational games that explore the art of pottery, making the discovery even more engaging. The outdoor space also displays an abstract sculpture by artist Vitor Ribeiro, a visual tribute to the pottery heritage, inspired by traditional forms.

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