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

A beautiful day to visit the Portuguese Historical Museum at Kelly Park. Museum is open from 11:30 - 3:30. Join us!
07/18/2026

A beautiful day to visit the Portuguese Historical Museum at Kelly Park. Museum is open from 11:30 - 3:30. Join us!

06/10/2026
Wonderful to have our many dignitaries and members of the Portuguese Community in attendance to receive the proclamation...
06/10/2026

Wonderful to have our many dignitaries and members of the Portuguese Community in attendance to receive the proclamation of Portuguese Heritage Month at San Jose City Hall. Thank you Council-member Ortiz, Mayor, Council for the honor. Thank you Secretary of State for the Economy João Ferreira and Consul General of Portugal Filipe Ramalheira and dignitaries for receiving this proclamation on behalf of the community. Congratulations to POSSO for receiving a proclamation for 50 years of serving the community.

Thank you to the San Jose City Council for honoring the Portuguese community next week. If you would like to attend, pl...
06/05/2026

Thank you to the San Jose City Council for honoring the Portuguese community next week. If you would like to attend, please see details below.

Congratulations to the Santa Clara SES for celebrating their 130th Festa do Espírito Santo. A wonderful event and sopas...
06/01/2026

Congratulations to the Santa Clara SES for celebrating their 130th Festa do Espírito Santo. A wonderful event and sopas! Thank you to all who volunteered and attended.

03/09/2026
03/09/2026

Feeling creative? Enter our Dia de Portugal T-shirt contest!

Address

1650 Senter Road
San Jose, CA
95112

Opening Hours

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

Telephone

(408) 612-8095

Website

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