Portuguese Historical Museum

Portuguese Historical Museum Preserving the history of the Portuguese immigrants The museum is one of the major attractions of History San José. Hall on East Santa Clara Street and U.S. 101.

The Portuguese Historical Museum opened on June 7, 1997, just a few days before Portugal Day, which is commemorated on June 10 annually. 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 S

pirit) built in San José circa 1915. It was constructed on the present site of the I.E.S. The império, like many of its counterparts in the Azores, was built to honor the Holy Spirit. It also served as the center of much social and religious activity. At the turn of the century, it represented the continuation of celebrated traditions that helped make easier the immigrants’ transition from the old world to the new by maintaining strong bonds to their heritage. The museum has approximately 3200 square feet of exhibit space on two levels. On the ground floor, the emphasis is on the reconstructed altar that serves as the backdrop for the explanation of the significance of the Holy Ghost celebrations. Another major showpiece is an etched glass map depicting the Portuguese world. This beautiful piece graces the entrance of the museum, and with its view, visitors are introduced to Portuguese history and culture. Display cases house the ever-changing exhibits on topics such as Life in The Old Country, Coming to America, and Making a Living. The lower floor hosts rotating exhibits that relive historical events like the 1957 volcanic eruption off the Azorean island of Faial and the exodus of refugees that it spawned. In addition, exhibits such as folklore and Portuguese marching bands show how these traditions continue to be a part of Portuguese-American culture. We are located at

1650 Senter Road
San Jose, CA

The Directors of the Portuguese Historical Museum of California had the distinct pleasure of welcoming our new Consul Ge...
11/17/2024

The Directors of the Portuguese Historical Museum of California had the distinct pleasure of welcoming our new Consul General of Portugal in San Francisco, Filipe Ramalheira. We appreciate your visit and wish you much success in your new role!

The Portuguese Historical Museum of San Jose would like to thank Ana Vargas- Smith, Taylor Amarante, Comedian and everyo...
10/05/2024

The Portuguese Historical Museum of San Jose would like to thank Ana Vargas- Smith, Taylor Amarante, Comedian and everyone who planned, attended and participated in today’s wonderful Santa Clara Parade of Champions & Festival. A great time was had by all!

Thank you to all the board members who helped plan and prepare our museum float for tomorrow’s Santa Clara Parade of Cha...
10/05/2024

Thank you to all the board members who helped plan and prepare our museum float for tomorrow’s Santa Clara Parade of Champions & Festival! Thank you to our friends Portuguese Tasty Desserts for providing the delicious meal! This year’s float highlights the 50 years since the carnation revolution which brought democracy to Portugal. Drop by our museum at Kelley Park in San Jose to see our 2024 exhibit.

09/30/2024

Mypfsa Modesto

Thank you to all who attended our 2024 Friends Picnic.  We would also like to thank Denis’ BBQ crew and board members wh...
09/30/2024

Thank you to all who attended our 2024 Friends Picnic. We would also like to thank Denis’ BBQ crew and board members who prepared and planned this event. It was great to have all 4 Museum Presidents in attendance from the museum’s inception. It was very nice to have Jose Avila and Miguel Ávila from the Portuguese Tribune and Richard Santos from the Santa Clara water District in attendance.

Address

1650 Senter Road
San Jose, CA
95112

Opening Hours

Saturday 12pm - 4pm
Sunday 12pm - 4pm

Telephone

(408) 612-8095

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