Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes
Buenos Aires
The National Museum of Fine Arts in Buenos Aires is Argentina’s foremost public art institution, located in the Recoleta neighborhood. Established in 1895 and initially housed on Florida Street, it was relocated several times before settling in its current building, a converted 19th-century pumping station redesigned by Alejandro Bustillo. The museum holds an extensive collection of over 12,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, and textiles spanning from the 3rd century BC to contemporary art. Its permanent collection features masterpieces by European masters such as Goya, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Manet, and Chagall, alongside significant Argentine artists like Antonio Berni, Ernesto de la Cárcova, and Xul Solar. The museum comprises 34 exhibition halls over 4,610 square meters, with dedicated spaces for international art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century on the ground floor and Argentine 20th-century art on the first floor. It also hosts temporary exhibitions, a specialized art history library with 150,000 volumes, and an auditorium for public events. A branch opened in Neuquén in 2004 extends its cultural reach to Patagonia. The museum remains a vital cultural hub, educating the public and promoting Argentine and international art.
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Consejo: Plan your visit to avoid peak hours and consider purchasing tickets in advance to skip lines. The museum offers discounts for students and seniors. The best time to visit is during weekdays when it is less crowded. Check the official website for temporary exhibitions and special events. Guided tours are available and recommended for a deeper understanding of the collections.
Datos interesantes
- •The museum's current building was originally a drainage pumping station built in 1870, later adapted by architect Alejandro Bustillo.
- •It houses over 12,000 pieces including paintings, sculptures, drawings, and textiles from the 3rd century BC to present.
- •The collection includes masterpieces by European artists such as Goya, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Manet, and Chagall.
- •The museum has a specialized art history library with 150,000 volumes.
- •A branch of the museum was opened in Neuquén in 2004, expanding its cultural presence to Patagonia.
Historia
Founded by presidential decree in 1895, the National Museum of Fine Arts opened in 1896 with an initial collection of 163 works.
Its first director, Eduardo Schiaffino, was instrumental in shaping the museum’s encyclopedic vision, inspired by European models.
The museum moved locations several times: from Florida Street to a pavilion originally built for the 1889 Paris exhibition, and finally to its current building in 1943.
Throughout the mid-20th century, under director Jorge Romero Brest, the museum expanded its modern art holdings and facilities, including a contemporary Argentine art pavilion opened in 1980.
In 2004, a branch was inaugurated in Neuquén, Patagonia, furthering the museum’s mission to promote art across Argentina.
Guía del lugar
Ground Floor Exhibition Halls
Features 24 halls showcasing European art from the Middle Ages to the 19th century, as well as 19th-century Argentine art. This floor also houses the museum's extensive art history library.
First Floor Exhibition Halls
Contains eight halls dedicated to 20th-century Argentine painters, including works by Antonio Berni, Ernesto de la Cárcova, Benito Quinquela Martín, and Xul Solar.
Second Floor and Terraces1984
Includes two exhibition halls completed in 1984, used for photography exhibits and temporary shows, as well as two sculpture terraces and administrative departments.
Contacto
Teléfono: 011 5288-9900
