Ring ring. That’s the sound that echoes through time at the Museu dos Telefones. Right here before you stands a testament to communication’s evolution. It’s more than just a museum it’s a journey. A journey through decades of technological innovation.
The Museu dos Telefones isn’t just a collection of old phones. It’s a living history of Portugal’s telecommunications. Agostinho Pinto a man with a passion for phones founded it in 2006. His love began in 1971 when he started working for the CTT. It’s a personal collection showcasing the evolution of communication. From manual phones to the digital age everything is here.
Imagine the first phone call made in Portugal. It connected Carcavelos to the Cabo station in 1877. Think of the excitement the first 22 Lisbon subscribers felt in 1882. They were pioneers. They were connecting to a world beyond their reach.
The museum holds incredible pieces. There’s a Lars Magnus “E” type AB 230-1882 wall phone. An Ericsson AC 110-1892 table phone is also displayed. A Siemens column-type phone from 1930 stands proudly. This phone was used for the first international call by President Óscar Carmona to the King of Spain in 1928. You can also see an Aptofone-1940 table phone.
Agostinho’s dedication shines through. He spent years repairing restoring and maintaining his collection. The museum offers a hands-on experience. Children and young people can try out old phones. They can even experience working as a telephone operator.
The collection isn’t limited to phones. There are telex machines and public telephone boxes. You can see various accessories. They all represent the evolution of Portugal’s telephone network. It’s all located in a small space in Cacia near Aveiro. It’s a hidden gem a tribute to a bygone era.
The Museu dos Telefones is more than just a museum. It’s a conversation starter. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come. A celebration of human ingenuity and connection. Take a moment to appreciate the legacy. Let the ring of the past connect you to the future.