Dr. Joaquim Manso Museum

  

 

Inaugurated on June 6, 1976, this museum showcases diverse regional collections, including ethnography, archaeology, painting, sculpture, and photography, alongside temporary exhibitions. Housed in an early 20th-century summerhouse, the museum emphasizes maritime ethnography with displays of local fishing boats and traditional costumes. Archaeology, town history, and the cult of the Virgin Mary are also prominently featured.

Nestled in the heart of Sítio, Nazaré, just a stone's throw from the waves that have made this coastal town world-famous, the Dr. Joaquim Manso Museum-also known as the Nazaré Museum-is a hidden gem that unveils the town's rich cultural tapestry. This museum is more than just a collection of artifacts-it's a journey through time, offering an intimate look at the traditions, art, and maritime heritage that define Nazaré's unique identity.

A Tribute to Tradition

Named after Dr. Joaquim Manso, a journalist and writer passionate about Portuguese culture, the museum was established in 1976 to preserve Nazaré's deep-rooted customs. It offers a captivating blend of ethnography, history, and art, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand the town beyond its colossal waves.

While Nazaré is now famous for record-breaking waves and extreme sports, the Dr. Joaquim Manso Museum reminds visitors that this town's essence lies in its people, traditions, and unbreakable bond with the sea. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or a curious traveler, this museum offers an authentic glimpse into the real Nazaré-before and beyond the surf.

What to Discover Inside

• Fishermen's Lives & Maritime Heritage - Step into the world of Nazaré's fishing community through traditional boats, nets, and tools that tell the story of a life at sea. The museum captures the pre-surfing Nazaré, when the ocean was more feared than conquered.
• The Iconic Seven Skirts of Nazaré - One of the most intriguing exhibits showcases the famous seven-layered skirts worn by Nazaré's women, a tradition rooted in both superstition and practicality, protecting them from the cold while waiting for their husbands to return from the sea.
• Religious & Folk Traditions - Nazaré's faith is beautifully illustrated through ex-votos, religious sculptures, and paintings, many linked to the legend of Our Lady of Nazaré, the town's patron saint.
• Art Inspired by the Sea - A collection of paintings, photographs, and sculptures by Portuguese artists captures the dramatic beauty of Nazaré's landscapes and the resilience of its people.

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