Museum Foundation of the House of Braganza

The Museum of the Foundation of the House of Braganza, located in the majestic Ducal Palace of Vila Viçosa, is an institution that celebrates and preserves the historical legacy of the Braganza dynasty, one of the most influential royal houses in Portuguese history. The foundation was created by the last Portuguese king, Dom Manuel II, who in his will of 1915 expressed the desire to dedicate the collections and assets of the House of Braganza to a museum. The foundation was officially established in 1933, a year after the king’s death in exile. The museum is located in the Ducal Palace, an imposing example of civil architecture from the 16th century, located in Vila Viçosa. This palace, built by Dom Jaime, the fourth Duke of Braganza, has hosted the royal family during their summer residences for centuries. The facade of the palace, with its marble details and large windows, testifies to the grandeur and power of the Braganza dynasty.Inside the museum, visitors can explore a vast collection that includes weapons, treasures, carriages, blue and white Chinese porcelain, as well as archaeological artifacts. The collection of weapons is particularly impressive, with pieces ranging from the Middle Ages to modern times, reflecting the military importance of the Braganza family. Among the exhibited treasures are jewelry, coins, and other precious objects that tell of the wealth and prestige of the royal house.Another fascinating section of the museum is dedicated to carriages, which includes magnificent examples of vehicles used by the royal family for their public appearances and travels. These pieces are not only witnesses of a bygone era, but also works of art that showcase the excellence of Portuguese craftsmanship.The museum’s library, known as the D. Manuel II Library, is another gem of the Ducal Palace. It contains a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts covering various historical periods, from the late Middle Ages to the 19th century. This library is a valuable resource for scholars of Portuguese history and culture.The museum also houses the Pantheon of the Dukes of Braganza in the Church of the Augustinians, a sacred place where many members of the royal family are buried. This pantheon is a place of great historical and religious significance, offering a poignant glimpse into the life and death of the dukes of Braganza. The Foundation of the House of Braganza is not only responsible for managing the museum and library, but also for the preservation of numerous historical buildings, many of which are classified as national monuments. Among these are the castles of Alter do Chão, Alvito, Ourém, Portel, and Vila Viçosa, each with its own unique history linked to the Braganza dynasty.For example, the Castle of Vila Viçosa has been an important stronghold of the Braganza family and has undergone numerous restorations over the centuries. The Castle of Alvito, on the other hand, built at the end of the 15th century, has been transformed into a pousada (a historic hotel) and houses a professional school for hotel services.