O IMOM – Museu Imersivo da Madeira opened its doors in Funchal on the afternoon of its inauguration, transforming the former Cinema João Jardim into a new cultural and tourist attraction for the region, according to regional government officials.
Regional Government President Miguel Albuquerque inaugurated the space alongside the venue’s owners, highlighting the site as a crucial addition to local cultural offerings. “This investment is another bet on cultural supply and diversification, and it is fundamental that Madeira continues to offer diversified and quality services and products for those who visit us and also for the population,” Albuquerque stated during the ceremony.
Did You Know? The new immersive museum occupies the historical site of the Cinema João Jardim, which operated as a prominent movie theater in Funchal for decades before its recent transformation.
The inauguration highlights an ongoing economic expansion across the region, which has seen continuous growth over a multi-year period. According to Albuquerque, the local economy is experiencing an extended upward trend. “We are recording economic growth for 61 months, and what appears is that we will continue to maintain this pace and course,” the regional leader noted, framing the new venue as a reflection of broader investor confidence.
The development is backed by a group of six co-owners of Romanian origin: Irina Jardim, Mirel Olaru, Nicu Buriu, Florin Niculae, Matei Dersidan, and Enis Husein. Among the partners, Irina Jardim resides in Madeira and holds Portuguese nationality.
Local municipal leadership also emphasized the historical resonance of repurposing the landmark building. Funchal Mayor Jorge Carvalho attended the opening and pointed to the emotional connection residents share with the location. “This space, an old cinema hall that brought us so many memories, continues to be a space of presence, presence, innovation, and affirmation in the city,” Carvalho said. “And that happens because it adapted to new times.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is O IMOM – Museu Imersivo da Madeira?
It is a new immersive museum inaugurated in Funchal on the site of the former Cinema João Jardim.
Who owns the new museum?
The venture is owned by six partners of Romanian origin: Irina Jardim, Mirel Olaru, Nicu Buriu, Florin Niculae, Matei Dersidan, and Enis Husein. Co-owner Irina Jardim resides in Madeira and holds Portuguese nationality.
How do local officials view the project?
Regional Government President Miguel Albuquerque and Funchal Mayor Jorge Carvalho both praised the project during the opening ceremony as a vital reinforcement of cultural diversification, tourism, and innovation that honors the historic building’s legacy.
How might the opening of new immersive cultural venues influence tourism and local development in Funchal in the coming months?