Museu Carlos Machado
Explore a former convent housing eclectic exhibits of taxidermy, marine life, and Azorean history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Museu Carlos Machado
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a former convent housing eclectic exhibits of taxidermy, marine life, and Azorean history.
"A bargain museum with a unique blend of natural history and convent charm."
⏳ Allow ample time
While seemingly small, the museum has much to see. Plan for 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits.
💰 Incredible Value
The entrance fee is a bargain at around 2-3 euros per person.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Taxidermy Collection
Natural History Wing
An extensive and unique collection of stuffed animals and marine life skeletons, including some rare specimens.
Former Convent Architecture
Throughout the museum
Explore the preserved original features of the 17th-century convent, including an ornate chapel.
Azorean History Exhibits
Historical Wing
Gain insights into the history of the Azores and the life of cloistered nuns.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Budget-Friendly Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
While seemingly small, the museum has much to see. Plan for 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits.
💰 Incredible Value
The entrance fee is a bargain at around 2-3 euros per person.
🎒 Free Lockers Available
Utilize the complimentary lockers to store your belongings securely.
🚶 Self-Guided Tour
The museum is best explored at your own pace. Information panels are available for context.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
While seemingly small, the museum has much to see. Plan for 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits.
💰 Incredible Value
The entrance fee is a bargain at around 2-3 euros per person.
🎒 Free Lockers Available
Utilize the complimentary lockers to store your belongings securely.
🚶 Self-Guided Tour
The museum is best explored at your own pace. Information panels are available for context.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Museu Carlos Machado is a budget-friendly gem in Ponta Delgada, praised for its unique taxidermy collection and the preserved architecture of its former convent setting. Visitors appreciate the low entrance fee and historical insights, though opinions on the taxidermy's condition vary.
"Nice museum in an old monastery. The museum is slightly bigger than it seems, but is still relatively small. You could spend a couple of hours here, if you're really into it. We were a bit in a rush, so we could spend only 45 minutes, which allows for a decent visit still.
They have an enormous collection of stuffed animals and skeletons of maritime life. Also some good info on the history of the Azores.
Entrance fee was only 2 euro p.p.: a real bargain. They have lockers that you can use free of charge.
If you enjoy an occasional museum visit, you are in the neighborhood and you have time, this is a no-brainer."
Ramon
"A small museum, part natural history and part historic religious convent. There is a LARGE amount of taxidermy and preserved animals, including some oddities with birth defects. It offered an interesting look into the life of cloistered nuns in the 17th century. The chapel is ornate and beautiful. Small 2-3€ entry fee."
Roy Kolar
"This museum is an absolute must-visit when you stay in Ponta Delgada. Housed in an old monastery, the original features are well preserved and gives you a good idea how life in the old days must have been. Inside, one can also find the museum of natural history - interesting and odd in a pleasant way."
Marnik Mijten
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Museu Carlos Machado is centrally located in Ponta Delgada, making it easily accessible on foot if you are staying in the city center. If arriving by car, there is street parking available nearby, though it can be limited during peak hours. Public transport options are also available, with bus stops within a short walking distance of the museum.
Information regarding wheelchair accessibility is limited, but given its historic nature as a former convent, some areas might present challenges. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date accessibility information before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, and it's recommended to check the official museum website or local listings for the most current information. Some reviews suggest it's open on Easter Sunday, but it's always best to confirm.
The entrance fee is very affordable, typically around 2-3 euros per person, making it a great value for visitors.
Advance booking is generally not required for Museu Carlos Machado due to its low entry fee and self-guided nature. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival.
While specific discounts are not widely advertised, the already low entrance fee makes it accessible for most travelers. It's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter if you believe you might qualify for any concessions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum has a dual focus: a significant natural history collection featuring taxidermy and marine life, and exhibits on the history of the Azores, including the life within the former convent.
Visitor opinions on the taxidermy vary. Some find it impressive and unique, while others describe it as 'atrocious' or poorly preserved. It's certainly a distinctive aspect of the museum.
Most visitors spend between 45 minutes to 2 hours at the museum, depending on their level of interest in the exhibits. A quick visit is possible in under an hour, while a more in-depth exploration could take longer.
Photography policies can change, but generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted in many areas. It's always best to check for signage or ask museum staff if you are unsure.
The museum is located in a former convent, dating back to the 17th century. Its preserved architecture offers a glimpse into the past, with the chapel being a notable feature.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically have a restaurant. However, being in the heart of Ponta Delgada, numerous cafes, restaurants, and grocery stores are within easy walking distance, offering a variety of dining choices.
It's generally not permitted to consume food or drinks inside museum exhibition halls to protect the artifacts. There might be designated areas, or you can enjoy your refreshments outside before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The ornate chapel, the unique taxidermy displays, and the architectural details of the former convent are popular subjects for photography. Capture the blend of religious history and natural oddities.
Flash photography is typically discouraged or prohibited in museums to protect delicate exhibits from light damage. Always look for signs or ask staff if flash is permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that some of the taxidermy might be a bit unsettling for very young or sensitive children. The museum is relatively small, making it manageable for a shorter visit with kids. The low entrance fee also makes it an accessible option for families looking for an affordable activity in Ponta Delgada.
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Taxidermy Collection
This collection is a stark contrast to the museum's other primary focus: religious history. The juxtaposition of scientific specimens with the serene, historical convent setting creates a truly distinctive atmosphere. It's a part of the museum that sparks conversation and is often a talking point for visitors, whether they are captivated by its oddity or critical of its presentation.
Exploring the Former Convent
Walking through these spaces provides a unique context for the exhibits. The historical religious convent setting adds a layer of solemnity and intrigue to the visit. It's an opportunity to appreciate not just the artifacts displayed but also the enduring structure that safeguards them, offering a dual experience of cultural history and architectural appreciation.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit