Buenos Aires isn’t just soccer, mate, and dulce de leche. Porteños come from a diverse range of backgrounds and are proud of the culture of their beautiful, literary city. As such, there are tons of museums to choose from; here are a few of our favorites at Mente Argentina.
- Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes: Buenos Aires’ fine arts museum, the MNBA, across from Plaza Francia and the Recoleta Cemetery, houses a small but lovely collection of paintings and sculpture by international artists, from Rembrandt to Cezanne. Open Tuesdays to Fridays 12:30-20:30 hs; weekends 9:30-20:30 hs. Av. del Libertador 1473. Free.
- Museo Nacional de Arte Decorativo: Argentina’s collection of decorative arts and furnishings is housed in a beautiful French-style castle, making the building itself well worth the visit. In January: Tuesday to Saturday 14-19 hs. February to December: Tuesday to Sunday 14-19 hs. Av. del Libertador 1902. Free on Tuesdays; ask for student rates other days.
- Museo de Arte Popular Jose Hernandez: This folk art museum pays tribute to Argentina’s Latin American history and traditions with pottery, jewelry, and artwork from the 19th Century to today. Wednesdays to Fridays 13-19 hs; weekends and holidays 10-20 hs. Av. del Libertador 2373. Sundays free.
- Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires: The MALBA is one of the most famous museums in Buenos Aires, home to an interesting collection of modern Latinamerican art as well as host to a variety of international exhibits. Thursday through Monday 12-20 hs; Wednesdays open late. Av. Figueroa Alcorta 3415. Wednesdays free; student rate 15 pesos.
- Fundación Proa: A hip, modern exhibit space in La Boca with a modern art collection; also offers lectures. Tuesday to Sunday 11-19 hs. Av. Pedro de Mendoza 1929.
- Fundación Federico Jorge Klemm: An eclectic, contemporary collection that sponsors events and awards for emerging young artists. Monday through Friday 11-20 hs. Marcelo T. de Alvear 626.
- Museo de Artes Plásticas Eduardo Sívori: In addition to an impressive collection of modern art, the Museo Sivori offers classes in painting, drawing, woodworking, and paper mache. Tuesdays to Fridays 12-20 hs; weekends and holidays 10-20 hs. Av. Infanta Isabel 555. Saturdays and Wednesdays free.
- Museo de Arte Espanola Enrique Larreta: Housed in what was once a beautiful family home in Belgrano, the Spanish art museum is worth the trip northward, not only for the lovely house and great art, but also for the exquisite gardens. Monday to Friday 13-19 hs; weekends and holidays 10-20 hs. Juramento 2291. Free Thursdays.
- Museo Casa Carlos Gardel: Pay homage to the famous tango singer and songwriter with a trip to his former home in Abasto, where he lived with his mother. Mondays, Wednesday, Thursdays, and Fridays 11-18 hs; weekends and holidays 10-19 hs. Jean Jaures 735. Wednesdays free.
- Tierra Santa: Can’t make it out to Israel but anxious to, um, see the sights? While Tierra Santa isn’t quite a museum, it’s too quirky to miss: Buenos Aires has re-created not only the landmarks of the Holy Land, but also re-enacts scenes from the New Testament of the Bible every weekend. I bet it makes for some great (if confusing) Facebook photos. Fridays 9-21 hs; weekends and holidays 12-22 hs. Av. Rafael Obligado 5790, Costanera Norte. 50 pesos.
- Museo del Humor: This newly opened museum is dedicated to Argentine humor in all its forms: comics, satire, political commentary. Monday to Friday 11-18 hs; weekends and holidays 10-19 hs. Av. de los Italianos 851. 10 pesos.
- Museo Evita Peron: Love her or hate her, this museum dedicated to Argentina’s beloved first lady is a must see for anyone interested in Argentine history, politics, or just a beautiful home in a lovely neighborhood. Tuesday to Sunday 11-19 hs. Lafinur 2988. 15 pesos.
Phew I feel more cultured already! Can’t wait for the next rainy day…
Patricia