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History

The Museo de Chiclana first opened its doors to the public on July 28, 2010. It is located in the heart of Chiclana’s historical district, in the Plaza Mayor near the Church of San Juan Bautista, sharing its architectural style and probably its architect, and faces the emblematic Arquillo del Reloj clock tower.

The building that now houses the Museum is known as the Briones house, named for the family that long owned and inhabited it. This 18th century building, its façade a beautiful example of civil Neo-Classic style, is attributed to architect Torcuato Cayón, who also made the designs for the San Juan Bautista church, which was completed under the direction of Torcuato Benjumeda.

The Plaza Mayor is bordered and defined by these buildings, which give it character and identity. It is the oldest and most interesting public space that remains. It used to be the urban center of the town and was surrounded from the 15th to the 18th century by the sole parish of the time, the town halls, and the jail.

This urban center drew affluent families who settled there and exerted great influence in the town’s political and economic life. Some buildings constructed in this area in the 18th century have lasted to the present day.

The newly built interior of the Museum reflects a modern concept of architecture and its use of spaces, inviting visitors into an organized route through successive contents.

Since February 19, 2003, management of the Museum, through the public company EMSISA, is exclusively municipal once again.