In a charming tree-lined street in the quaint old town, the Henrique and Francisco Franco Museum stands tall, drawing the curiosity of tourists visiting Funchal and Madeira.
Though relatively small, the museum houses a wide array of paintings, sculptures and other artistic works by Henrique and Francisco Franco.
- Coordinates: 32.651301, -16.903900
Nestled amidst the picturesque streets of the historic district, the Henrique and Francisco Franco Museum beckons the curiosity of tourists visiting Funchal and Madeira.
The relatively small museum houses a diverse array of paintings, sculptures, and other artistic creations by the Franco brothers, who have dedicated decades to the arts.
It also hosts temporary exhibitions, lectures, seminars, concerts, and other cultural events about artists’ works, a centre for preserving artistic heritage.
For other notable tourist destinations in the city, visit Things To Do In Funchal, and for a comprehensive guide to the island, see Things To Do In Madeira Portugal.
Henrique e Francisco Franco Museum Location & Contacts
Morada: Rua São João de Deus 13, 9000-028 Funchal
Phone: 291211090
email: museu.franco@cm-funchal.pt
Opening Hours
It is open from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 to 12:30 and from 14:00 to 17:30.
Museum Price
The best of all? Admission is free.
Henrique painted with verve and passion (1883-1961), while Francisco crafted beautiful and evocative sculptures (1885-1955). Their works have been exhibited at international exhibitions and have been appreciated by art critics from around the world.
Henrique Franco’s paintings show the influence of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist painters. His work is a fusion of traditional and modern styles, seen in the magnificent portraits of Madeiran nature.
His mastery, with a balanced palette yet still vibrant, is a testament to his talent. The brushstroke is detailed as if Henrique could capture the island spirits.
These paintings are, undoubtedly, masterpieces.
Francisco Franco is a talented sculptor.
In 1910 he won the Valmor prize.
The following year, he goes to Paris, where his art continues to flourish. He mingles with Amadeo Sousa Cardozo, a fellow artist known for his unique technique and experimental style.
Unfortunately, Amadeo died prematurely in 1918 at the age of 31. His work continues to be admired and studied to this day.
Exemplary Francisco’s effort to create João Gonçalves Zarco’s statue, portraying a strong knight focused on Funchal colonization.
It is nearby (Arriaga Avenue), next to the Golden Gate Cafe and near the Blandy wineries, where famous Madeira wine matures.
The staff are kind and cordial, offering a first-rate service to those who have the opportunity to visit this wonderful place.
It’s an interesting, educational place for the whole family. Are you interested in learning more about modern art in Portugal?
Then, you must visit the museum during your trip.
Things to do nearby:
We are very close to the old district of Funchal, where we discover the exotic Mercado dos Lavradores, the historic Rua de Santa Maria.
The Funchal Cable Car takes us to the breathtaking tropical gardens of Madeira.
To the northeast, we have the fascinating Quinta da Boa Vista museum.
To the southwest, we arrive at the Avenida do Mar and the Funchal Marina, close to the CR7 Museum.
