The store
In the heart of Barão de S. Martinho square, Ourivesaria Santos occupies the ground floor of a 19th century building that has the particularity of being one of the narrowest in the city of Braga. Renovated in 1966, the store now has a contemporary image, despite the fact that it breaks with the building. However, its architectural quality is evident, considering the period in which it was designed, and this extends to the decoration and furnishings.
History
We can't say exactly what year he was founded, but as early as 1880, Manuel Casimiro da Costa was engaged in the trade and art of goldsmithing. In 1905, the Almanak de Braga dedicated a few pages to paying homage to him, highlighting his "qualities of work and honor, from a very young age he began to deserve the sympathies of all who dealt with him, for the smoothness of his business and the prodigiously artistic way in which he carried out the work entrusted to him." The crown offered to the Virgin of Sameiro, a work of art from his workshop and testimony to his superior skills, deserved a hymn of praise when the government of His Majesty King Carlos distinguished Manuel Casimiro da Costa with the Officialate of the Civil Order of Industrial Merit.
In 1927, António M. Casimiro da Costa tried to follow the same path as his father. However, the goldsmith's financial situation forced him to pass on the business. Joaquim António dos Santos, a jeweler from Porto, became the new owner of the goldsmith's shop in 1929. A new phase began for the goldsmith's shop, which was renamed Ourivesaria Santos. In 1956, a new generation took over the art of goldsmithing and jewelry, Joaquim António Praça Santos and Alexandre António Praça Santos, the latter still managing the goldsmith's shop today, in partnership with his nephews and heirs, in an establishment that was significantly changed after renovations in 1966.
Products and services
Jewelry.
Contact
Phone: 253 263 651
Email: pracaalexandre@gmail.com
