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Military Museum of the Armed Forces of El Salvador: A Chronicle of Conflict

Explore El Salvador's military past at the Military Museum of the Armed Forces, featuring extensive collections from pivotal moments in the nation's history.

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The Military Museum of the Armed Forces of El Salvador in San Salvador offers a compelling look into the nation's military history, housed in the former El Zapote barracks. Exhibits include military equipment, vehicles, and a detailed 3D map of El Salvador.

A brief summary to Military Museum of the Armed Forces of El Salvador

Local tips

  • Admission is free, but having an ID can be helpful for entry.
  • The museum is open from 8 AM to 8 PM, Tuesday through Sunday.
  • Allow at least one hour to explore the museum's exhibits thoroughly.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the museum via public transport, take a bus heading towards the southern area of San Salvador. Bus routes 30, 32, or 38 frequently pass through the city. Get off at the stop closest to 10 Avenida Sur, typically at the intersection of Avenida España and 10 Avenida Sur. From there, walk a short distance down 10 Avenida Sur; the museum will be on your left. Bus fares typically cost around $0.20 - $0.35.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in San Salvador. A taxi ride from the city center to the Military Museum will typically cost between $5 and $10, depending on traffic and distance. Confirm the fare before starting the trip or use a ride-hailing app for transparent pricing.

  • Walking

    If you are near the city center, walking to the Military Museum is feasible. From the Plaza Libertad, head south on Avenida España, then turn left onto Calle Alberto Sánchez. Continue onto 10 Avenida Sur; the museum will be on your right. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and should take about 30 minutes.

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Discover more about Military Museum of the Armed Forces of El Salvador

Located in the former El Zapote barracks in San Salvador, the Military Museum of the Armed Forces of El Salvador provides a comprehensive overview of the country's military history. The museum's mission is to preserve, research, and disseminate the historical and cultural heritage of the Armed Forces of El Salvador. The museum features a wide array of exhibits, including military uniforms, weaponry, vehicles, and over 35,000 pieces of military equipment. Highlights include the popemobile used by Pope John Paul II during his 1996 visit and a detailed 1:25000-scale relief map of El Salvador. Exhibits cover key events, such as conflicts with Honduras and Iraq, and the Salvadoran Civil War. The museum also includes memorials dedicated to fallen soldiers. Originally constructed in 1918 by architect Borromeo Flores as barracks for the Salvadoran Army, the site was known as “El Zapote” due to the sapote trees on the hill. The barracks served as the operational headquarters for the 1st Artillery Regiment and later the Armed Forces Transmission Support Command. In 1993, it was transformed into a military museum and opened to the public in 2002.

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