The Pre-Columbian Art Museum, also known by its Spanish acronym MAP, is an art museum located in Cusco, Peru. The museum is dedicated to showcasing archaeological artifacts and pre-Columbian artworks from all regions of pre-Columbian Peru. This provides a comprehensive view of the rich cultural heritage of the region before the arrival of the Spanish.
The Pre-Columbian Art Museum is located on Plazoleta de las Nazarenas in the San Blas district of Cusco. The museum has a permanent exhibition of around 450 individual artifacts, which are representative of the wider collection of its parent museum, the Larco Museum in Lima. This allows visitors to get a glimpse of the extensive collection without having to travel to Lima.
The artworks displayed at the Pre-Columbian Art Museum span a period from 1250 BC to AD 1532. The museum is divided into ten galleries: Formative, Nasca, Mochica, Huari, Chancay – Chimu, Inca, Wood, Jewelry and Stone, Silver, and Gold and Metals. Each gallery focuses on a specific period or aspect of pre-Columbian art, providing a comprehensive overview of the artistic development in the region.
Art & Design Ancient art Archaeology
Monday | 8:00 – 22:00 |
Tuesday | 8:00 – 22:00 |
Wednesday | 8:00 – 22:00 |
Thursday | 8:00 – 22:00 |
Friday | 8:00 – 22:00 |
Saturday | 8:00 – 22:00 |
Sunday | 8:00 – 22:00 |
Nazarenas 231, Cusco
No exhibitions in Museum of Pre-Columbian Art have been found.
Museum of Pre-Columbian Art has 1 rating.
The Museum of Pre-Columbian Art in Cusco, Peru, offers visitors an insightful look into the rich artistic heritage of ancient Andean civilizations. Located in a restored colonial mansion, the museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts spanning from 1250 BC to AD 1532.
Visitors appreciate the well-organized exhibits that showcase a diverse range of pre-Columbian art forms, including ceramics, textiles, metalwork, and stone carvings. The museum's layout allows for a chronological journey through different cultures and periods, providing context to the artistic developments in the region.
Many reviewers highlight the quality and preservation of the artifacts on display. The gold and silver pieces from various pre-Inca cultures are often mentioned as standout exhibits. The textile collection also receives praise for its intricate designs and vibrant colors that have survived centuries.
The museum's intimate setting is generally viewed positively, allowing visitors to get close to the artifacts and appreciate the fine details. However, some visitors note that the space can feel a bit crowded during peak times.
While most find the information provided adequate, a few reviewers mention that they would have appreciated more detailed explanations or audio guides in various languages. The museum's location in the historic center of Cusco is convenient for tourists, though some find the entrance fee slightly high compared to other attractions in the area.
Overall, the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art is valued for its focused presentation of ancient Andean art, offering a complementary experience to the more archaeological-oriented sites in and around Cusco. It's particularly recommended for those with an interest in art history or looking to deepen their understanding of pre-Columbian cultures beyond the more famous Inca civilization.
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