Portugal dos Pequenitos

In Coimbra, beside Rossio de Santa Clara, Portugal dos Pequenitos turns the scale of architecture into a pedagogical language. Conceived by Bissaya Barreto as part of his work in defence of children, it was created as a playful and educational extension of the Casa da Criança Rainha Santa Isabel, which still operates there today. The park-garden opened on 8 June 1940 and was designed by the architect Cassiano Branco. Its first phase brought together Portuguese regional houses; the following ones added areas dedicated to the country’s main monuments and to the ethnographic and monumental representation of the Portuguese-speaking African countries, Brazil, Macau, India and Timor. Among houses, pavilions, gardens and small volumes, the ensemble presents styles and typologies of Portuguese architecture, linked to regional characteristics and traditional crafts. It is a place designed for children, but also a visual synthesis of Portuguese material culture.

Why it matters

Portugal dos Pequenitos is a theme park located in Coimbra, inaugurated on June 8, 1940. This visionary project was conceived by Professor Bissaya Barreto and designed by architect Cassiano Branco, both prominent figures in Portuguese society. The main objective was to provide an educational and playful representation of Portugal and its former colonies, showcasing the country's rich history and culture to visitors, especially children. At its inauguration, Portugal dos Pequenitos reflected the vision of the Estado Novo, an era of nationalism and celebration of the country's historical achievements. The meticulously constructed miniatures were designed to educate and inspire, showcasing the cultural and architectural diversity of Portugal. Over the years, the park has grown and adapted, becoming a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Coimbra.

Architecture and history

Portugal dos Pequenitos stands out for its detailed and realistic miniatures, representing iconic and typical monuments from various regions of Portugal and former colonies. The park is divided into different thematic areas. The first zone visitors encounter is the "Regional Houses" area, where they can admire the traditional architecture of various Portuguese regions, from the simple white houses of the Alentejo to the colorful homes of Madeira. Another highlight is the "Monumental Houses" section, featuring scaled-down reproductions of historical monuments such as the Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Convent of Christ. The attention to detail is impressive, with each building presenting precise architectural features, from ornate facades to intricate stonework. Lastly, the area dedicated to the "Houses of the Former Colonies" represents Portuguese presence in various parts of the world, with miniatures reflecting Portuguese architectural and cultural influence in countries like Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique.

More context

Visiting Portugal dos Pequenitos is an educational and fun experience for all ages. Starting with the "Regional Houses", visitors can learn about the architectural and cultural diversity of Portugal. Each house is accompanied by informative plaques describing its origin and characteristics. In the "Monumental Houses" section, visitors have the opportunity to explore replicas of some of Portugal's most emblematic monuments. These miniature buildings offer a unique understanding of the real structures, allowing for a detailed appreciation of their architectural features. The "Houses of the Former Colonies" area provides insight into Portuguese influences around the world, presenting a fascinating mix of architectural styles. It is an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of the former colonies and Portugal's cultural impact in various parts of the globe. In addition to the miniatures, the park also includes thematic museums displaying artefacts and exhibits related to Portuguese history and culture. These museums complement the experience, providing a deeper insight into Portugal's heritage.