New Exhibition Honors Francisco Pinto Balsemão's Legacy in Media and Democracy
An exhibition celebrating the life of Francisco Pinto Balsemão has opened to the public. Titled Francisco Pinto Balsemão: A Legacy of Freedom and Democracy, it marks the founder's 88 years through rare photographs and personal items. The launch coincided with World Press Freedom Day on May 3. The display features dozens of national and international awards earned by Balsemão. Visitors can also see his first typewriter from Expresso and an original journalist's press card. Among the items are stamps once used to conceal censorship cuts in printed material.
Personal belongings of the media pioneer, including objects from his time founding *SIC* and *Expresso*, are also on show. The opening ceremony was attended by the minister of the Presidency, the speaker of the Assembly of the Republic, and the mayor of Oeiras. The exhibition is free to visit for employees of *SIC* and *Expresso*, their guests, and the wider public.
The collection offers a detailed look at Balsemão's influence on Portuguese media and politics. It remains open for those interested in his contributions to democracy and journalism. The timing aligns with a global celebration of press freedom.
