The best museums Portugal

The museums of private collectors are the most surprising in Portugal. José Regio was a man marked, if not obsessed, by the Christ figure. The first room reveals this to us, surprising for its collection of Christ on the Cross. Collection is a weak word to talk about this accumulation of folk art sculptures from the 16th to the 18th century. Some of them have strange peculiarities, such as the Christ on the female hip or the sculpture with crucified hands, whose index fingers are the only ones stretched. The other parts are less interesting.

Founded in 1875, it was the first earthenware factory to be established in Alcobaça. The company's productions can be appreciated in a museum that gathers about a hundred pieces representing the evolution of styles during several decades. The visit consists of two permanent exhibitions: "Os Trajes do Rancho do Alcoa, alusivos à louça de Alcobaça" which shows many ancient remains, and "Coleção de Cerâmica Raul da Bernard" for its ceramics. A beautiful discovery of this typically Portuguese and regional art.

This strange church is the south end of the Largo da República do Brasil. Decorated in its exterior by a multitude of azulejos, it has the backdrop of the Tree tree Hills. A harmonious vision…

At the southern end of the city centre, the old castle is located on the former strategic medieval position called the Tagus Line. This fortified town, conquered in turn by the Romans, Barbarians, Moors and Christians, has remains from every era. Today it is in ruins, and you will only find part of the defensive wall, the Porta do Sol. From there, you will have a spectacular view of the Tagus and the valley from which it is difficult to take your eyes off.

This museum is housed in the former holiday home of Joaquin Manso, who was a writer-journalist and founder of the Diário de Lisboa. There is an ethnographic and archaeological collection that reflects the history and cultural identity of this maritime region, including some models of traditional costumes and ship models whose postcard representations have filled the purses of postal workers around the world.

You cannot leave Guimarães without going to the Penha hill. The road that leads to it crosses a thick, rich and varied forest; at every moment, at every turn, you will want to stop and walk there. On the way down, panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. It would also be a shame not to spend a night at the pensão da Penha or at the campsite, so that you can explore this magnificent natural site. You can also play minigolf there. It is possible to hike through the forest, ask at the tourist office.