Museu Carlos Machado
This eclectic museum’s collection is displayed in three buildings within walking distance from each other, with the largest section—the natural history collection—housed within the 16th-century Convento de Santo André, a former convent that retains much of its original charm. The natural history portion focuses on botany, geology, mineralogy, and especially zoology, with many fascinating taxidermied specimens. The Santa Bárbara location houses more contemporary artworks and temporary displays, while the sacred art museum includes 17th- and 18th-century pieces from Azorean painters, a former chapel with an intricate carved-wood altar, and interesting temporary exhibits.
