Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico
The Museum of Art of Puerto Rico (MAPR), located in the Santurce district of San Juan, is a premier cultural institution dedicated to Puerto Rican art. Housed in a historic building originally constructed in 1920 as part of the San Juan Municipal Hospital complex, the museum artfully blends heritage architecture with contemporary exhibition spaces. It features 18 exhibition halls and a permanent collection spread across 24 galleries on the upper floors, highlighting works from colonial times to contemporary artists. Notable pieces include portraits by José Campeche, an 18th-century master considered one of the most important painters in Hispanic America, such as "The Daughters of Governor Ramón de Castro" (1797). The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and a sculpture garden open to the public. Its mission is to preserve and promote Puerto Rican visual arts, providing visitors with a rich cultural experience that connects the island's artistic past with present-day creativity. The museum's location in Santurce, a vibrant arts district, further enhances its appeal as a cultural hub.
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Tip: Visit the museum on Thursdays between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. for free admission. It is advisable to check the official website for current exhibitions and plan your visit accordingly. The museum offers discounted tickets for residents, students, seniors, veterans, and persons with disabilities. Parking is available nearby for a fee, and several public bus routes serve the area.
Interesting facts
- •The museum building is a preserved part of the former San Juan Municipal Hospital complex built in 1920.
- •José Campeche, whose works are featured in the museum, is regarded as one of the most important Hispanic American painters of the 18th century.
- •The museum's permanent collection is divided into 24 galleries located on the third and fourth floors.
- •The sculpture garden offers free access to visitors and complements the indoor exhibitions.
History
The museum building was originally designed by architect William H.
Shimmelphening and constructed in 1920 as part of the San Juan Municipal Hospital.
It functioned as a hospital until 1966, after which it was repurposed for government offices until 1975.
The idea to transform the building into an art museum emerged in 1995, led by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company with funding from the Government Development Bank.
Instead of demolishing the historic structure, it was integrated into the new museum design, preserving its architectural significance.
Since then, the Museum of Art of Puerto Rico has grown into a leading institution for Puerto Rican art and culture.
Place Guide
Permanent Collection Galleries
The museum's permanent collection spans 24 galleries showcasing Puerto Rican art from the colonial period to contemporary times. Highlights include José Campeche's portraits and modern works by emerging artists like Omar Velázquez.
Sculpture Garden
An open-air sculpture garden accessible to the public without charge, featuring works that complement the museum's artistic mission and provide a serene outdoor experience.
Contact
Phone: (787) 977-6277
