Museu de José Malhoa

The Museu de José Malhoa (José Malhoa Museum) is situated in the grounds of the beautifully landscaped Parque Dom Carlos I. As the name suggests it is home to the largest collection of Caldas da Rainha born painter, José Malhoa.

José Vital Branco Malhoa (1855-1933) is recognised as the most influential naturalist painter of the late 19th century. His work depicts Portuguese life, often rural, at the time with unrivaled skill.

The museum also hosts collections of sculpture, drawing and ceramics from the same period. Most notable amongst the other artists featured is Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro who was one of Malhoa's contemporaries and fellow member of the "Grupo do Leão" - a group of Lisbon based artists and intellectuals.
There is also a collection of ceramics by this artist's brother, Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro. As well as being regarded as the pioneer of comics in Portugal, Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro founded the ceramics factory in Caldas da Rainha upon which the town's reputation for pottery is based.