- Address: 25 de Mayo 279, 11000 Montevideo, Uruguay
- Phone: +598 2916 9360
- Site: mapi.uy
- Date of foundation: September 17, 2004.
- Opening hours: Fri-Fri 11:30 - 17:30, Sat 10:00 - 16:00, Sun - closed
- The cost of visiting: adult - $ 2.5, pensioners and children under 12 years - free of charge
The capital of amazing Uruguay , Montevideo , today is one of the most attractive places to visit on the continent. Thanks to its convenient location right on the Atlantic coast, this city is not only considered an excellent resort , but also famous for its unique culture. Among the many museums in Montevideo, the Museum of Indigenous Art of the pre-Columbian period (Museo de Arte Precolombino e Indígena - MAPI) is the most interesting, according to the reviews of holidaymakers. Let's talk more about it.
General information about the museum
The Museum of Indigenous Art was founded on September 17, 2004 and is located in the historic center of Montevideo - Ciudad Vieja . The building in which the museum is located, was built in the XIX century. The project was designed by the Spanish architect Emilio Reus. Years later, the structure was recognized as a brilliant example of the eclectic architecture of that time, and in 1986 it became a National Historical Monument.
Outwardly the building looks rather conservative: light brown walls and massive wooden windows. The interior of the museum is much more interesting: high columns, long light staircases and the highlight of the structure - the glass roof - attract the attention of many travelers.
What is interesting about the museum?
The collection of MAPI today has a little more than 700 pieces of art from various cultures of Latin America and indigenous peoples inhabiting the territory of modern Uruguay. Conventionally, the museum can be divided into several thematic zones:
- The first of the halls is dedicated to Uruguayan art and archeology. It presents the most valuable artifacts found during excavation in the country.
- The second hall shows artifacts from different parts of Latin America pre-Columbian period. Many of the exhibits are more than 3000 years old.
- The third room is reserved for temporary exhibitions. Here you can often see the works of contemporary artists.
- On the ground floor there is a small bookstore where you can buy specialized editions of the museum, posters, postcards and handmade products.
It is worth noting that the Museum of Indigenous Art of pre-Columbian period also performs an educational function and offers a special program of courses for all comers. Every year more than 1000 children have the opportunity to personally touch the art and understand its value.
How to visit?
The museum building is located in the central part of Ciudad Vieja. You can get there as yourself, using your personal transport or taxi services, or by bus. You should leave at the stop 25 de Mayo.
For visitors, the museum is open Monday to Friday from 11:30 to 17:30 and Saturday from 10:00 to 16:00. Sunday is a day off. For pensioners and children under 12 years old admission is free, the cost of an adult ticket is $ 2.5.