Journey through centuries of Latin American art at theNational Museum of Art (Museo Nacional de Arte). See collections ofpre-Hispanic, colonial-era and contemporary artworks by renowned artists.
The museum is located in the stunning Palacio de losCondes de Arana, a stylish 18th-century mansion with three floors of exhibitsto explore. Begin in the colonial galleries and view intricately detailedreligious works by famed artists such as Leonardo Flores and Gaspar Miguel deBerrio. See de Berrio’s Adoración de los Reyes y Adoración de los Pastores,particularly remarkable in its time for the inclusion of an African figurewithin a colonial painting.
Admire the work in an entire gallery devoted to thePeruvian artist, Melchor Pérez Holguín, considered one of the greatest mastersof Andean colonial art. Be sure to see the stunning oil paintings, VirgenLavandera and Caída de Cristo.
The contemporary art exhibitions include works fromthe 19th century onwards. See the sensuous works by Marina Núñez del Prado, asculptor who was influenced by the traditional works of the Aymara people.
Throughout the year, the museum curates temporaryexhibitions and hosts cultural events. In the past, these have included theevolution of children’s toys, orchestral concerts and optical arts. In themonth of May the museum hosts the Larga Noche de Museos (Long Night at theMuseum), where many of the city’s cultural institutions, including galleries,theatres, museums and cultural centres, provide free admission to all membersof the public so everyone in the city can experience the city’s cultural history.
The National Museum of Art is centrally located by thePlaza Murillo and is easy accessible by taxi and the shared mini-buses. Openinghours are Tuesday to Sunday and the small admission fee is for the permanentexhibits, while all temporary exhibits are free. Comprehensive details aboutcurrent exhibitions can be found on the official website.
