A Legacy Celebrated: Museu Benfica – Cosme Damião Welcomes its Millionth Visitor
The Museu Benfica – Cosme Damião reached a momentous milestone on January 14th, 2024, welcoming its one millionth visitor. As its grand opening to the public in July 2013, this institution has firmly established itself as a premier cultural destination in Lisbon, captivating audiences wiht the rich history of sport Lisboa e benfica, one of the world’s most renowned sporting organizations.The 2023/24 season proved to be notably remarkable, drawing over 160,000 visitors – a record-breaking number – and hosting over 400 guided tours catering to diverse groups, including school children, families, and international visitors. Moreover, the museum presented over 40 engaging programs designed to appeal to a wide range of ages and interests.
What sets the Museu Benfica – Cosme Damião apart is its commitment to constant evolution and renewal. This dedication to providing a dynamic and interactive experience has resulted in a revisit rate exceeding that of most museums in the city, underscoring its captivating and engaging nature.
Within its 4,000 square meters of exhibition space, the museum showcases over 1,000 objects, carefully selected from the Sport Lisboa e Benfica’s extensive collection of 37,000 cultural artifacts.These artifacts are thoughtfully organized across 29 thematic areas, ensuring that the exhibition content remains current and reflects the ongoing progress of all the club’s sporting disciplines.
The museum’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its accessibility programs designed for visitors with visual and auditory impairments. This dedication to providing a welcoming habitat for all reinforces the museum’s core values.
Educational initiatives are another cornerstone of the museu Benfica – Cosme Damião. Each year, approximately 12,000 students have the possibility to explore the museum’s exhibits through interactive educational programs that connect the club’s history with relevant educational themes. Tailored guided tours further enhance the visitor experience, providing a personalized and enriching journey.
The museum’s success is a testament to the collaborative efforts of various departments within the Cultural Heritage division, including the Mediation and Education Service, the Documentation and Information Center, the Conservation and Restoration Department, the Curatorial team, and the Production team.
Reaching the one million visitor mark solidifies the Museu Benfica – Cosme Damião’s position as a pioneering and accessible cultural space. Committed to delivering innovative experiences and celebrating its heritage,the museum welcomes visitors from all walks of life,truly embodying the spirit of “a museum for everyone.”
Celebrating a Legacy: An Interview wiht Rui Costa on the Museu Benfica – Cosme damião
Moderator: Welcome back to “Behind the Score,” sports fans! Today, we’re joined by a Benfica legend, the brilliant Rui costa. Rui, it’s an honor to have you!
Rui Costa: The honour is all mine. It’s great to be here.
Moderator: We’re here today to talk about something truly special: the Museu Benfica – Cosme Damião, which recently welcomed its one-millionth visitor. Rui, as a seasoned player who dedicated his heart to Benfica, what are your thoughts on this unbelievable milestone?
Rui Costa: It’s a testament to the club’s rich history and its enduring legacy. Benfica is more than just a football club; it’s woven into the fabric of Portuguese culture. This museum celebrates that, showcasing the triumphs and stories of generations of players and athletes. I’m incredibly proud to see it thriving.
Moderator: Absolutely. The article highlights the museum’s commitment to constant evolution and renewal. Do you think this is crucial for attracting new visitors and keeping the museum relevant?
Rui Costa: I believe so wholeheartedly. Many museums can become static, stuck in the past. But the museu Benfica – Cosme Damião is constantly evolving. It embraces new technologies, introduces interactive exhibits, and ensures that the content reflects the ongoing development of the club. It’s a living tribute to Benfica, capturing the spirit of progress and innovation.
Moderator: The article mentions the museum’s accessibility programs for visitors with disabilities. What impact do you think inclusive initiatives like this have on the overall cultural landscape of Lisbon?
Rui costa: It’s heartwarming to see. Sport should be inclusive, and so should cultural spaces. These initiatives make the museum accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities. It sends a powerful message about equality and fosters a welcoming environment for all Lisbon residents and visitors.That’s truly commendable.
Moderator: Speaking of visitors, the museum has seen a record-breaking number of visitors this season.What do you think contributes to this surge in popularity?
Rui Costa: A million visitors is a phenomenal achievement! I think several factors are at play: Benfica’s recent successes, the museum’s engaging exhibits, and its dedicated staff who go the extra mile to ensure a memorable experience. It’s become a must-see destination not only for football enthusiasts but also for anyone interested in Portuguese sports history.
Moderator: We have to commend the museum for its educational programs, engaging thousands of students each year. How critically important is it to use sport as a tool for education?
Rui Costa: Extremely important! Sport teaches valuable life lessons like teamwork, perseverance, and discipline. It can inspire young minds, instill a sense of community, and open doors to new opportunities. The Museu Benfica – cosme Damião cleverly weaves these elements into its programs, creating a unique and enriching learning experience for children and young adults.
Moderator: You really do see the experience bridging generations, Rui?
Rui Costa: Absolutely. It’s a place where fans from different generations can connect, share stories, and celebrate their shared passion for Benfica. You see grandparents pointing out memorabilia from their youth to their grandkids, who are discovering legends from the past. It’s a lovely sight!
Moderator: What a powerful sentiment.To our viewers, we want to hear your thoughts! Have you visited the Museu Benfica – Cosme Damião? what are your impressions? Share your experiences in the comments below.
