Museum of History, Anthropology and Art (Museo de Historia, Antropología y Arte)
Located in the campus of Puerto Rico University in San Juan, the Museum of History, Anthropology and Art possesses one of the most important archaeological collections in the Caribbean, including a vast array of artifacts from the island’s indigenous Taino people. Rounding out the displays are notable works by Puerto Rican painters Francisco Oller and José Campeche.
The Basics
The museum houses a famous painting by Francisco Oller called El Velorio (The Wake) which alone would justify your visit. The painting depicts the wake of a child's funeral, with the visitors having a gala while the parents mourn. One of the few early impressionistxa0painters of Puerto Rico, Oller painted El Velorio in 1893—it’s one of few of his paintings to survive.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Museum of History, Anthropology and Art is an ideal spot for history and archaeology buffs and people interested in Caribbean art and culture.
- A small gift shop sells postcards and books.
- Take the time to walk through the beautiful university campus.
- The museum is wheelchair-friendly.
Trip ideas
How to Get There
The Museum of History, Anthropology and Art is located on the campus of the University of Puerto Rico in the Rio Piedras district of San Juan. Take the Tren Urbano metro to the UPR station. The university is right outside the metro exit. From Old San Juan, take the T3 or E10 bus to Sagrado Corazon where you can catch the metro to the university.
When to Get There
The museum is open every day except Saturday, from morning until evening. It remains closed on Saturdays and local holidays. Weather year-round on the island is pleasant. Peak season runs from December through March. An ideal time to visit is mid-April to June, when the crowds have left.
Museum of Art of Puerto Rico
A great complement to this Museum is to visit the impressive Art Museum of Puerto Rico in San Juan’s hip Santurce district, which showcases artworks from the 17th century to the present. Highlights include painting, sculpture, photography, and new media from local modern and contemporary masters including Antonio Martorell, Lorenzo Homar, and José Campeche.
- Mercado de Río Piedras
- Luis A. Ferré Performing Arts Center (Centro de Bellas Artes Luis A. Ferré)
- La Calle Loiza
- Museum of Art of Puerto Rico (Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico)
- San Juan Bay
- Pine Grove Beach
- Fine Arts Miramar
- Old San Juan Piers
- Paseo de la Princesa
- La Fortaleza (The Fortress)
- Castillo San Cristobal
- Chapel of Christ (Capilla del Cristo)
- San Juan Cathedral (Catedral de San Juan Bautista)
- Old San Juan
- Museum of the Americas (Museo de las Américas)