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About the Museum

The Portuguese Historical Museum opened on June 7, 1997, just a few days before Portugal Day, which is commemorated on June 10 annually. The museum is one of the major attractions of History San José. In keeping with the theme of the historical park, it depicts life as it was in the Santa Clara Valley (now known as Silicon Valley) at the turn of the 20th century. The Portuguese Historical Museum is a replica of the first permanent império (Chapel to the Holy Spirit) built in San José circa 1915. It was constructed on the present site of the I.E.S. Hall on East Santa Clara Street and U.S. 101.

Click on an article below.

Portuguese Historical Museum - Birth of a Plan

The birth of a plan to build the Portuguese Historical Museum

Portuguese Historical Museum - Beginning the Process

Beginning the process to build the Portuguese Historical Museum.

Portuguese Historical Museum - Beware the Unexpected

Unexpected surprises during the construction of the Portuguese Historical Museum.

Portuguese Historical Museum - Dedication & Expansion

The Portuguese Historical Museum dedication ceremony and expansion plans.

Portuguese Historical Museum - John Figueira and the Plaza

John Figueira had a vision and the determination to see it through.


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