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Costume Museum in Viana do Castelo: An Ethnographic Treasure of Alto Minho
The Viana do Castelo Costume Museum is a key landmark in the preservation and celebration of the cultural heritage of Alto Minho, with a focus on the traditional Viana costume that served as inspiration for Portuguese jewelry. Located in the historic city center, this museum is not only an exhibition space, but also a symbol of the region’s identity and pride, reflecting the dedication of the people of Viana to preserving their traditions.
History and Foundation of the Museum
Opened in 1997, the Viana do Castelo Costume Museum aims to study and promote the ethnographic heritage of Viana do Castelo, with an emphasis on the Viana costume. This costume, which is the epitome of the popular culture of Alto Minho, was worn mainly between the mid-19th and 20th centuries. The creation of the museum was the culmination of a long-held dream of the people of Viana do Castelo, who had been yearning for a space dedicated to local ethnography since the early 20th century, particularly the costumes that symbolize the creativity and identity of the region's women.
The location of the museum in the building that previously housed the Banco de Portugal branch in Viana do Castelo is symbolic in itself. Built between 1954 and 1958, the building, with its austere and vertical architectural lines, became the museum's home in 2004, after being acquired by the City Council.
The Museum Collection
The Viana do Castelo Costume Museum ’s collection is made up of a rich collection of traditional rural costumes from the municipality, including work attire, party attire, condolence attire and bridal attire. These costumes are notable for their originality, diversity of techniques and raw materials used in their production, reflecting the unique culture of Alto Minho.
One of the most iconic costumes is the Traje à Vianesa , worn by women in the villages around Viana do Castelo. This costume, which varies according to the occasion, from work in the fields to religious festivals, is a clear example of the creativity of the women of Viana in making their clothes. Over time, the costumes became more vibrant colors and more elaborate ornaments, becoming true works of art that symbolize the cultural identity of the region.
In addition to the costumes, the museum has a significant collection of ethnographic objects related to the making and use of the costumes. These include tools used in the production of linen and wool, as well as adornments and jewelry that complement the costumes, such as Viana hearts, beads and earrings.
Explore the rich tradition of the Heart of Viana and its cultural origins with this emblematic jewel . The hearts of Viana are more than simple ornaments; they are an integral part of the tradition and folklore of Viana, used in festivals and pilgrimages, such as that of Our Lady of Agony, one of the most important in the region.
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Exhibitions and Activities
Since its opening to the public, the Viana do Castelo Costume Museum has hosted a number of permanent and temporary exhibitions that explore the region’s rich cultural heritage. The most notable permanent exhibition is “Wool and Linen in the Costume of Alto Minho”, which provides a detailed look at the process of making traditional costumes, from the raw materials to the finished product.
Another permanent exhibition of great importance is the "Oficina do Ouro", which highlights the importance of jewelry in Viana costume. Through this exhibition, visitors can learn about the manufacturing process of emblematic pieces such as the Coração de Viana Necklace and the Contas de Viana Necklace , pieces that continue to be symbols of status and beauty in Minho culture. Here is a perfect example of the necklace that is part of this enduring tradition.
In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions that explore different aspects of Viana ethnography, including costumes, jewelry and other elements of local culture. These exhibitions provide a dynamic and ever-evolving insight into Viana do Castelo’s rich cultural heritage.
The museum also runs a range of educational activities, with a special focus on school visits, which are an important part of its mission to promote and preserve cultural heritage. These activities are designed to engage younger audiences, offering them a deeper understanding of the importance of Viana costume and associated traditions.
Museum Architecture and Space
The building that houses the museum is a representative work of "Estado Novo" architecture, marked by austere and vertical lines. The two high reliefs by Roque Gameiro, which decorate the façade, are a reminder of the economic activities that shaped the region and that continue to influence local culture. The transformation of this building into a museum in 2004 included significant renovations to adapt it to museological needs, including the creation of spaces for exhibitions, reserves, educational services, gatherings and administration.
Upon entering the museum, visitors are welcomed into an entrance hall decorated with fine materials such as marble and tiles, which set the stage for the immersive experience that follows. The exhibits are spread across several floors, each dedicated to different aspects of Viana ethnography, from costumes to accessories and the historical and social context in which they were used.
The Role of the Museum in Cultural Preservation
The Viana do Castelo Costume Museum plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the traditional culture of Alto Minho. Through its exhibitions, educational activities and research programmes, the museum ensures that the traditions and knowledge associated with the Viana do Castelo costume are not lost over time. The museum’s certification in 2004 as part of the Portuguese Museum Network underlines its commitment to the conservation and promotion of the region’s cultural assets.
The importance of the Viana costume goes beyond its aesthetic value; it is a symbol of cultural identity and the resistance of local traditions in the face of social and economic changes. The museum contributes to the appreciation of this heritage, promoting knowledge and understanding of the role that costumes and popular culture play in the construction of regional identity.
A museum that symbolizes Viana's costume and culture
The Viana do Castelo Costume Museum is more than just a museum; it is a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of Alto Minho and a guardian of the traditions that define Viana’s identity. Through its mission to study, preserve and promote traditional Viana costume, the museum ensures that these traditions continue to be appreciated and understood by future generations.
For those who wish to further explore the rich cultural heritage of Viana do Castelo, I recommend visiting the collection of traditional jewelry inspired by Viana costumes, available at Portugal Jewels .
