It is the result of a donation by the philanthropist António Augusto Nogueira da Silva, who, in addition to his own house, donated paintings, furniture, jewellery, sculpture, glass, tapestries, textiles and porcelain. It houses one of the most charming gardens in the city, which includes a space dedicated to the writer from Braga, Maria Ondina Braga.

The Nogueira da Silva Museum owes its foundation to a bequest made in September 1975 to the University of Minho by António Augusto Nogueira da Silva. Coming from a family from Braga, he developed a philanthropic activity that led the State and the Church to distinguish him with several honorary orders. The dimensions of the building, designed by the architect Rodrigues Lima, the garden and its location in the centre of the city have made it possible to create spaces for cultural activities complementary to the museum, such as the University Gallery where temporary art exhibitions are held; auditoriums for conferences and concerts; the photo library where various photographic archives are kept and the educational service with a varied programme of activities for schools.

The permanent exhibition includes an important collection of porcelain, furniture, paintings, silver, ivory and some tapestries and tiles.