The Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante, MACA) may be lesser known compared to its bigger counterparts in Madrid and Barcelona, but this historic museum contains one of Spain’s most impressive 20th-century art collections. The MACA has been a cultural drawcard for Alicante since 1977. Three permanent collections are the pride of the museum,which showcases more than 800 artworks. A visit here can fill an entire afternoon, especially when escaping the summer sun.
The museum is not just for art lovers. Those with an interest in architecture will enjoy finding out about the museum’s transformation from the city’s oldest building into a modern exhibition space. The MACA is located within the Asegurada building, which dates back to the late 17th century. The building once housed a granary before being turned into a prison and later a school. Its final transformation into a state-of-the-art museum was thanks to the brilliance of architects Sol Madridejos and Juan Carlos Sancho.
MACA’s expansive 20th-century collection, like the whole museum, has a strong focus on Spanish artists and many of the country’s most notable names can be found here. Important works by Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí and Juan Gris are on display alongside other influential artists such as Francis Bacon and Georges Braque.
Eusebio Sempere, Spain’s leading kinetic artist, is represented on the third floor. Wander around his moving sculptures, installations and geometric paintings. See an extensive collection of more than 100 paintings by the great Alicante artist Juana Francés.
Catch one of the concerts, film nights, seminars and workshops featured on the MACA’s exciting program of events. Events and opening hours are listed on the official MACA website.
MACA is centrally located in Alicante’s Old Town and can be easily reached on foot from anywhere within the historic city centre. Drivers can find metered street parking nearby.
Entry to the Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art is free. The museum is closed on Mondays and some holidays.
