Museus portugueses de 1974 à atualidade : da resolução de problemas funcionais à comunidade

Abstract

I begin by a systematic collection of information on the Portuguese museum scene using as a point of departure the year of 1974 and arriving at the present time. In a schematic way, I try to highlight the different stages of consolidation and development of museums, their leadership and legal framework. The 1990s are the boom years of museums, especially the local museums under municipal supervision. As the analysis continues, I take note how certain dynamics which were initially present - as the ideas of mobilization and a strong sense of community - disappear and efforts are directed more to the resolution of functional problems of museums. I conclude by appealing to the need for reconceptualization of the notion of heritage that can help the museum to fulfil its social functions.