Silves Municipal Archaeology Museum

The Silves Municipal Archaeology Museum is a cultural institution located in the town of Silves, in the Algarve region of Portugal. It is also known as the Silves Municipal Museum or Silves Archaeology Museum. This museum is a significant cultural landmark in the region, offering visitors a chance to explore the rich history and archaeology of the area.

Location and Design of the Museum

The Silves Municipal Archaeology Museum is situated at Rua da Porta de Loulé, in the historic center of Silves. The museum was designed by architect and archaeologist Mário Varela Gomes. It was built around an existing structure, a well-cistern from the Muslim era, which is considered the main element in the museum's exhibition. This unique design allows visitors to experience a piece of history in an immersive way.

Collection of the Museum

The Silves Municipal Archaeology Museum boasts a rich collection spanning various historical eras from the Paleolithic to the Modern Age. This includes artifacts from the Neolithic, Chalcolithic, Bronze and Iron Ages, Roman era, and Middle Ages. The museum's collection of Islamic period pieces, dating from the 8th to the 13th centuries, is particularly noteworthy and offers a unique insight into the region's past.