Whaling Museum
Região Autónoma dos Açores
Located in Lajes do Pico on the island of Pico in the Azores, the Whaling Museum is a unique institution dedicated to the history and culture of whaling in Portugal and one of the few specialized museums in Europe. Housed in a 19th-century complex known as the Three Whaling Sheds and Blacksmith Workshops, the museum is classified as a Property of Public Interest. It presents a comprehensive permanent exhibition divided into five main sections: the Azorean whaling boat, the blacksmith's tent, life of the whaler on land, naval carpentry, and whaling art, notably featuring scrimshaw-intricate engravings and sculptures made from sperm whale ivory and bones. The museum also contains a specialized library with maps and ship logs, and a small auditorium screening the film "The Last Whalers." Outside, visitors can see a reconstructed direct-fire tryworks used historically to process whale parts. The museum embodies the artisanal techniques of Azorean whalers who hunted sperm whales using sailboats and hand-thrown harpoons until the last catch in 1987. Its restoration project, led by architect Paulo Gouveia, was honored in 1993 for architectural excellence. This museum offers an immersive insight into an important maritime tradition that shaped the Azores' cultural identity.
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Tip: Visit during spring and summer months for the best weather and longer daylight hours. Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist season to avoid waiting. The museum offers educational programs and guided tours that enhance the visitor experience. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Check the official website or contact the museum for updated opening hours and special events.
Interesting facts
- •The Whaling Museum is the only one of its kind in Portugal and among the few specialized whaling museums in Europe.
- •The museum is housed in a 19th-century complex classified as a Property of Public Interest since 1980.
- •It features a scrimshaw collection, an art form involving engraving on whale ivory and bones.
- •The last sperm whale was captured in Azorean waters in 1987, marking the end of commercial whaling in Portugal.
- •The museum's restoration project was awarded an honorable mention in 1993 by the Portuguese Architects Association.
History
The concept of a museum dedicated to Azorean whaling dates back to 1968, with organizational efforts beginning in 1971.
The museum was initially housed in provisional facilities before moving to its current location in 1988, in a restored 19th-century whaling shed complex.
Whaling in the Azores was a traditional artisanal industry, with the last sperm whale caught in 1987 marking the end of commercial whaling in Portugal.
The museum's restoration project received an honorable mention in 1993 from the Portuguese Architects Association and the State Secretariat for Culture, recognizing its cultural and architectural significance.
Place Guide
Azorean Whaling Boat19th century
This section displays the traditional whaling boat used by Azorean whalers, highlighting its design suited for sailing and harpoon hunting.
Blacksmith's Tent19th century
A reconstruction of the blacksmith's workshop where tools and harpoons were forged and maintained.
Whaler's Life on Land
Exhibits depicting the daily life and community of whalers when ashore, including personal effects and cultural artifacts.
Naval Carpentry19th century
This area showcases shipbuilding and repair techniques used to maintain the whaling boats, including traditional woodworking tools.
Whaling Art and Scrimshaw
A collection focusing on scrimshaw-artistic engravings and carvings made on whale ivory and bones, reflecting the whalers' creativity and traditions.
Tryworks Reconstruction19th century
An outdoor exhibit recreating the direct-fire tryworks used to melt whale blubber into oil, essential for processing whale products.
Contact
Phone: 292 679 340
