Top 5 museums in Colombia that every tourist should visit
If you are a museum lover and doing cultural activities is your thing, this article is perfect for you. In Colombia, there are tons of museums and cultural centers with the most interesting stories. Here, we have a list of the most important museums in Colombia for you to visit and get to know some of the most valuable artworks.
1. Museo Nacional (Bogotá)
Opened 95 years ago, this is one of the oldest museums in Colombia. The space is divided into 4 main collections: art, history, archeology and ethnography. It has more than 2,500 pieces that symbolize the history of the country. The collection of art displayed in this museum includes paintings, drawings, sculptures, installations, and more.
These artworks are not only from Colombia and Latin America, but also from Europe. Initially, the museum was a panopticon, which was used as a prison for almost 72 years. Here, you can find many activities which include conferences, plays, concerts, etc.
When to visit? It is open from Monday to Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and on Sundays, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
How much does it cost? About USD 1.30
2. Museo El Castillo (Medellín)
Inspired by the medieval castles in France, this place was built between 1930 and 1942. Thanks to its different owners, this is one of the museums in Colombia with a remarkable collection of plastic art, which has become a cultural heritage for Medellín, as well as a display of art from all around the world.
The museum has beautiful gardens. Also, they have tons of traditional furniture from the 20th century, chandeliers, and traditional porcelains from Europe.
This place has worked to promote art as well as popular traditions, with the purpose of being a model of art in the city, while at the same time offering a wide range of activities for visitors. It is one of our top things to do in Colombia. Check out more here.
When to visit? It is open from Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and on the weekends, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
How much does it cost? About USD 3.79
3. Museo de la Caña de Azúcar (Cali)
This is one of the most traditional museums in Colombia. It is found in Hacienda Piedechinche, just 42 km from Cali, between the municipalities of Palmira and El Cerrito. This house was built in the colonial architectural style, which shows houses from the 18th century.
The museum tells the story of the sugar industry from its cultivation to its production. Here, you can enjoy some specialized tours that allow visitors to explore the traditional ranch, see the trapiches—traditional machinery used to produce sugar—, and learn about the sugar cane culture present in this part of the country. Another great place to learn more about the South and countryside of Colombia is Popayan.
When to visit? It is open every day from 9:00 a. m. to 4:00 p. m.
How much does it cost? About USD 2.91
4. Museo de Arte Moderno (MAMBO) (Bogotá)
Known as one of the most important museums in Colombia, and in Bogotá, this place has become a famous landmark in the country. The main purpose of this space is to research art, conserve art and promote an interest in art collections—a cultural heritage for the Nation.
The museum also showcases different examples of modern and avant-garde art from local and international artists. You can find photographs, sculptures and paintings that represent different movements. So, if you are figuring out what things to do in Colombia, this a stop you cannot skip.
When to visit? It is open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and on Sunday, from 12:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It is closed on Mondays.
How much does it cost? About USD 3.49
5. Casa Museo Gabriel García Márquez (Magdalena)
This initiative was carried out by the minister of Culture and the University of Magdalena, with the purpose of celebrating the life and writings of the Nobel prize winner in Literature, Gabriel García Márquez. This house, which belonged to the grandparents of Gabriel García Márquez, was transformed into a museum to recreate the space in which the writer grew up.
The museum has 14 spaces that look like the traditional 20th century houses in this region. Visitors can learn about some of the most important moments in the life of the author, and the influence they had over his work.
When to visit? It is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and again from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. On Sundays, it’s open from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. It’s closed on Mondays.
Conclusion
So, if you are thinking about traveling to this part of the world, add one more stop to your visit. Besides going to some of the greatest beaches, or trying the best restaurants in Colombia, you cannot afford to miss the opportunity of visiting these museums in Colombia. You won’t regret it.
If you need help or guidance with the planning process of your trip to Colombia, don´t hesitate to contact us. We have a team of travel experts looking forward to help you have the best holiday of your life.