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Museo de Arte Costarricense: A Cultural Gem in San José

Discover Costa Rica's artistic soul at the Museo de Arte Costarricense, showcasing national heritage in San José's historic former airport.

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The Museo de Arte Costarricense (Costa Rican Museum of Art) in San José is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and history buffs. Housed in the city's former international airport terminal, the museum showcases Costa Rica's rich artistic heritage from pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary masterpieces.

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Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Explore the tranquil sculpture garden at the back of the museum for a relaxing retreat.
  • Take advantage of the free admission for students and those under 18.
  • Visit on a Sunday for free admission.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Parque Nacional or Avenida Central, walk southwest towards Av. 2, turn left, and continue until C. 42. Turn right, and the museum will be on your left. The walk takes approximately 30-40 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Sabana-Cementerio or Sabana-Estadio bus. Alternatively, take the train from San Pedro to Pavas and stop in front of the General Comptroller of the Republic in Sabana Norte. Bus fares for short trips typically cost between 200 to 400 colones (approximately $0.30 to $0.80 USD).

  • Taxi/Uber

    Taxis and Ubers are readily available in San José. A short trip within the city will typically cost between C10,000 and C25,000. Ensure the meter is running ('Puede poner la Maria por favor') to avoid overcharging. Official cabs charge around $1 USD for every two-thirds of a mile.

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Discover more about Museum of Costa Rican Art

Located in the heart of San José within La Sabana Metropolitan Park, the Museo de Arte Costarricense (MAC) offers a deep dive into the nation's artistic evolution. The museum is housed in a neoclassical building that was once Costa Rica's first international airport terminal, La Sabana International Airport. In 1978, it was repurposed into a space dedicated to preserving and showcasing Costa Rican art. The museum's collection includes over 6,000 works, representing Costa Rican art from the mid-19th century to the present day. Visitors can explore a diverse range of artistic expressions, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and multimedia installations. Highlights include the Gold Salon, featuring a bronze-plate bas-relief mural by French sculptor Louis Féron depicting Costa Rican history, and the sculpture garden with works like Jorge Jiménez's 22-foot-tall Imagen Cósmica. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing contemporary artists and specific themes. The MAC actively engages the community through workshops, artist talks, and educational programs. It serves as a cultural hub, fostering a deeper understanding of art and its role in Costa Rican society.

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