The Portuguese Network of Museums (RPM) is an organized system of museums based on voluntary membership, progressively structured and aiming at the decentralization, mediation, qualification and cooperation between museums.
Created in 2000 within the scope of a Project Structure under the auspices of the Portuguese Institute of Museums, it is a fundamental tool for the implementation of national museological policies and the qualification of Portuguese museums, one of the responsibilities of the Museums and Monuments of Portugal, E.P.E.
The goals of the Portuguese Network of Museums are: the advancement and qualification of national museums, the institutional cooperation and coordination between museums, the decentralization of resources, the planning and rationalization of public investments ensuing from the application of Community funds, the circulation of information relating to museums, the promotion of thoroughness and professionalism in museum practices and techniques, the fostering of coordination between museums, and the professional development of their staff.
As a structure of coordination and a platform of communication and support for museums, the Portuguese Network of Museums aims to encourage transversality in the implementation of projects and communication between the museums themselves, to support the training, information (diffusion) and qualification of its members, and, as determined by law, to ensure the accreditation process of museums seeking to join the Network.
The strengthening of the Portuguese Network of Museums and the guarantee of provision of competent services to the public contribute to the increasing importance of museums as agents of social change and catalysts for the country’s cultural, economic and social development.
The Portuguese Network of Museums carries out its mission through a set of core areas of activity aimed at strengthening, supporting and qualifying the national museum sector. These areas promote collaborative work, knowledge sharing and the continuous enhancement of museums, in accordance with the Framework Law of Portuguese Museums:
- Museum Accreditation
- Monitoring of Accredited Museums
- RPM Training Programme
RPM museums
The Network currently comprises 175 museums. Its richness lies in the diversity of geographies, guardianships, collections, facilities, educational and cultural activities, models of interaction with local communities, and managing systems.
Caracterização dos Museus da RPM (Characterization of the RPM museums) [PDF]
Lista de Museus da RPM (List of the RPM museums) [PDF]
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