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Madrid · American cultural heritage

Museum of the Americas: Madrid's Gateway to American History

Discover centuries of American history and culture through art and artifacts.

ArtHistoryLocal heritageContemporary

The Museum of the Americas houses collections that tell the story of American cultures, from ancient civilizations to modern expressions. Visitors can explore a wide range of artifacts, art, and historical insights from across the continent.

Discover the rich cultural heritage and diverse history of the Americas through extensive collections and engaging exhibitions.

Museum of the Americas
Museum of the Americas: Identity and Focus

The Museum of the Americas, located in Madrid, is dedicated to preserving, researching, and exhibiting the vast cultural heritage of the American continents. Its collections span diverse civilizations from pre-Columbian eras through colonial periods to contemporary expressions. Visitors can explore a comprehensive look at the continent's history, traditions, and artistic movements, fostering a deeper understanding of its peoples and their contributions.

The Museum of the Americas building with a tall bell tower and an arched entrance under a blue sky
Museum of the Americas opening hours in Madrid

Check today’s opening status, weekly schedule, and special date changes for Museum of the Americas. Use these opening hours to plan your arrival and avoid closed times in Madrid.

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
-
09:30-15:00
09:30-15:00
09:30-19:00
09:30-15:00
09:30-15:00
10:00-15:00
Museum of the Americas Admission

Admission to the Museum of the Americas offers various ticket options for visitors. General entry is available, and group tickets are also provided for parties of eight or more. The museum extends free admission to specific groups, including children up to 17, seniors aged 65 and above, and students between 18 and 25. Eligibility for free entry typically requires presentation of valid identification.

General Admission
€3.00
Reduced Fare (Groups)
€1.50

For groups of 8 or more, booked at least 15 days in advance

Reduced Fare (Cultural Volunteers)
€1.50

For people working as cultural volunteers with valid accreditation

Visitor Services at the Museum of the Americas

The Museum of the Americas provides a range of tools to support a self-guided experience for visitors. Mobile audioguides and informative guide maps are available in multiple languages to help guests explore the collection. These resources are provided at no additional cost to assist with navigating the museum galleries.

Audioguides

Available

Guide map

Available

Multi-language info

Available
Museum of the Americas in Madrid

The Museum of the Americas is located at Av. de los Reyes Católicos, 6, in the Moncloa - Aravaca neighborhood of Madrid. This area, known for its academic institutions and green spaces, offers a tranquil setting for visitors seeking to explore the museum's extensive collections on the history and cultures of the American continent.

© OpenStreetMap contributors

Av. de los Reyes Católicos 6

28040 Madrid

Moncloa - Aravaca, ES

Planning Your Visit to the Museum of the Americas

Making reservations in advance for your visit to the Museum of the Americas in Madrid is highly recommended to facilitate a smoother entry process. This thoughtful planning helps manage visitor flow at the museum, which is situated in the Moncloa - Aravaca neighborhood. By securing your spot, you can ensure a more streamlined experience, allowing you to focus on exploring its dedicated collections.

Planning Your Visit to the Museum of the Americas

Exploring the Museum of the Americas

The Museum of the Americas in Madrid is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting the extensive cultural heritage of the American continents. Visitors embark on a comprehensive journey through diverse civilizations and societies, encountering a vast collection of artifacts and artworks that span from pre-Columbian eras through colonial periods to contemporary expressions of identity. The museum features a permanent exhibition showcasing key aspects of American cultures, complemented by a rotating program of temporary displays. These focused insights delve into specific cultural topics, historical events, or artistic movements from across the Americas, fostering a deeper understanding of the continent's peoples and their enduring contributions.

Exterior of the Museum of the Americas in Madrid with a large arched entrance, Spanish flag, and surrounding greenery
Top exhibition picks at Museum of the Americas
Curated museum program highlights and what to see now in Madrid
Discover high-interest exhibitions at Museum of the Americas, selected to help you prioritize your route, compare show themes, and plan a more rewarding museum visit in Madrid.
Watercolor illustration of a museum exhibition featuring a large purple map of the Americas and a wide screen displaying historical scenes of settlement and cultural development.
Permanent exhibition

Explore 'The Reality of America' Permanent Exhibition at the Museum of the Americas

Discover cultural evolution and settlement patterns across the American continent.

This exhibition details the chronological development of America's diverse cultures and racial mixtures. See how human settlement patterns shaped the continent's rich heritage, presented through engaging mock-ups and projections at the Museum of the Americas.

The Reality of America
Watercolor illustration of the 'Knowing about America' exhibition at the Museum of the Americas, featuring historical maps, globes, scientific instruments, and artistic renderings depicting early exploration and perception of the Americas.
Permanent exhibition

Knowing about America: Historical Perception Exhibition at the Museum of the Americas

Discover myths, chronicles, and cartography shaping America's image.

Explore how the American continent was observed and understood through time. This permanent exhibition reveals the blend of myth, historical accounts, and early scientific exploration that defined its image. Discover the instruments and art that shaped perception at the Museum of the Americas.

Knowing about America
Watercolor illustration of a museum display featuring ancient ritual objects, including carved figures, pottery, and ceremonial items, representing Indigenous and colonial religious practices.
Permanent exhibition

Religion: Indigenous Myths, Rituals, and Colonial Spirituality at Museum of the Americas

Discover ancient spiritual beliefs and ritual objects from the Americas.

Delve into the permanent 'Religion' exhibition, focusing on the supernatural connections forged by societies through centuries. Witness ritual objects and learn about Indigenous deities, sacred sites, and the influences of European colonization on spiritual practices and beliefs.

Religion Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of women in aprons, representing domestic workers, displayed in a museum gallery setting with historical artifacts and a sign reading 'New Room'.
From Apr 30, 2026

Eulogia Merle's "Cama adentro" Exhibition at the Museum of America

Exploring migrant women's lives and colonial history through contemporary art.

This temporary exhibition by Eulogia Merle features compelling portraits and art pieces. It confronts the silent narratives of migrant domestic workers, creating a critical dialogue with the museum's colonial past. Discover a powerful social commentary.

Cama adentro Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of a museum exhibit titled 'Origins of Written Communication in the Americas,' featuring ancient pictograms, codices like the Tro-Cortesiano and Tudela, and glyphic systems on stone tablets and an open book.

Communication Exhibition at Museum of the Americas: Explore Ancient Writing Systems

A permanent display exploring expression across American cultures.

Delve into the fascinating history of communication in the Americas. This exhibition traces the evolution of written language from primitive pictographies to the rich symbolism of codices and glyphic systems.

Communication Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of ancient American dwellings, artifacts, and symbols of power, representing diverse indigenous societies and their daily lives.

Society: A Permanent Exhibition on American Societies at the Museum of the Americas

Exploring the cultural evolution and social structures of American civilizations.

Explore 'Society', a permanent exhibition that uncovers the daily lives, economies, and social hierarchies of American societies. Understand their evolution from tribal groups to complex states through compelling artifacts and displays. This offers deep insights into human organization and cultural heritage.

Society Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of intricately decorated Novohispanic lacquered bateas (bowls and platters) displayed in a museum gallery, highlighting indigenous and Asian influences.
May 22, 2026 – Oct 18, 2026

Bateas novohispanas Exhibition: Cultural Crossroads at Museo de América

Showcasing indigenous artistry and global cultural fusion in lacquered bateas.

Explore the rich historical, social, and artistic meaning of Novohispanic lacquered bateas. This exhibition highlights indigenous craftsmanship and the fascinating fusion of Asian and Western traditions. It's free to visit, so plan your cultural exploration.

Bateas Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of indigenous Mexican characters in traditional attire, representing the '68 voces, 68 corazones' exhibition, set in a museum gallery with cultural artifacts and animated storytelling screens.
Mar 11, 2026 – Apr 12, 2026

68 voces, 68 corazones: Mexican Indigenous Languages Exhibition at Museum of America

Discover animated oral narratives preserving Mexican indigenous cultural heritage.

This exhibition highlights the '68 voces, 68 corazones' project, featuring captivating animations. Based on oral narratives, these stories help strengthen and promote Mexican indigenous languages. Explore this unique cultural initiative.

Exhibition Details

History of the Museum of the Americas

The Museum of the Americas was formally established in 1941 by the Spanish State in Madrid, with a decree separating American-origin collections from the National Archaeological Museum and incorporating items from the Prado Museum and new acquisitions. It provisionally opened in a wing of the National Archaeological Museum in 1944, showcasing pre-Columbian and colonial-era artifacts. The museum moved to its permanent site in Ciudad Universitaria starting in 1962, with the building itself being declared an *Asset of Cultural Interest* that same year. After extensive renovations from 1981 to 1994, the Museum of the Americas reopened, dedicating the entire building to its expanded mission of preserving and exhibiting the cultural heritage of the American continents.

  • Established in 1941

    1941Founding

    The Museo de América was established by the Spanish State in 1941, consolidating works from other repositories, including the National Archaeological Museum and the Prado Museum, alongside new donations, deposits, and purchases.

  • Initial pieces from other institutions

    Collection

    The museum's initial collection came from the former American archaeological and ethnographic artifacts of the National Archaeological Museum, Madrid, and the Prado Museum. It also incorporated unrelated donations, deposits, and purchases.

  • Collections from Royal Cabinet of Natural History

    1771Historical period

    Due to the destruction of early American collections in a fire at the Alcázar of Madrid in 1734, the museum's oldest collections originate from the Royal Cabinet of Natural History, established by Charles III in 1771.

  • Donation from Pedro Franco Dávila

    Collection

    The collection of Pedro Franco Dávila, assembled during his fourteen-year stay in Paris, significantly contributed to the Royal Cabinet of Natural History, enhancing the museum's early holdings.

  • Transfer of Royal Cabinet collections

    1868Collection

    In 1868, the antiquities, art, and ethnography collections of the Royal Cabinet were transferred to the newly created National Archaeological Museum, forming a precursor to the Museo de América's holdings.

  • Separation of American collections decree

    1941Founding

    A decree on April 19, 1941, led to the separation of American-origin collections from the National Archaeological Museum to form the Museum of America. These collections included American Ethnography and Archaeology.

  • Provisional inauguration in 1944

    1944Opening

    The Museum of America was provisionally installed in a wing of the National Archeological Museum and inaugurated on July 13, 1944, featuring eleven rooms dedicated to pre-Columbian and colonial-era collections.

  • Move to Ciudad Universitaria begins in 1962

    1962-1965Relocation

    The move to its final location in Ciudad Universitaria began in 1962, with the building's official inauguration occurring three years later.

  • Declared Asset of Cultural Interest in 1962

    1962Heritage status

    The museum building was declared a Monument, an Asset of Cultural Interest, by Decree 474/1962 on March 1, and officially listed in the Boletín Oficial del Estado on March 9.

  • Major renovation from 1981 to 1994

    1981-1994Renovation

    The museum underwent significant renovation work from 1981 to 1994, during which it was closed to the public. Following this, it reopened exclusively occupying the entire building.

  • Reopening in 1994 after renovations

    1994Opening

    After extensive renovations, the museum was reopened on October 12, 1994, now occupying the entire building exclusively and featuring a renewed collecting program.

  • Acquisition of artifacts from Hispaniola

    Collection

    As part of preparations for its 1994 reopening, the museum established a collecting program that included artifacts from Spain's first Caribbean settlement on Hispaniola.

Museum of the Americas FAQs: We've Got Answers (Even About Mondays!)

Ever wondered if the Museum of the Americas welcomes visitors on a Monday, or if a reservation is recommended for your visit? We have the answers to these and many more practical questions about exploring our unique collections. Dive into our full FAQ section to plan your perfect day.

Does the Museum of the Americas have free entry days?

Yes, entry is free for all visitors on Sundays all day, on Thursdays after 2:00 PM, and on specific national holidays.

Can students and seniors get free admission to the Museum of the Americas?

Yes, admission is free for children and youth under 18 years old, seniors aged 65 and over, and students between 18 and 25 years old. Valid official documentation must be presented to receive free entry.

How much are group tickets for the Museum of the Americas?

Group tickets are priced at 1.50 EUR per person for groups of eight or more people. These bookings must be made a minimum of fifteen days in advance.

What are the ticket prices for the Museum of the Americas?

General admission to the Museum of the Americas is 3.00 EUR. A reduced admission price of 1.50 EUR is available for cultural volunteers and group visits.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Museum of the Americas

When planning your visit to the Museum of the Americas in Madrid, reservations are recommended to ensure a smoother experience. To enhance your exploration of the collections, complimentary guide maps and audio guides are provided. Multi-language information is also available to assist visitors during their time at the museum.

Visitor Suitability

The Museum of the Americas offers a comprehensive experience for individuals, groups, and students keen on the history, art, and diverse cultures of the American continents. Visitors interested in exploring heritage from pre-Columbian eras through colonial periods to contemporary expressions will find its collections insightful. Located in the Moncloa - Aravaca neighborhood of Madrid, the museum provides resources like audio guides and multi-language information. Making a reservation is recommended to ensure a smooth visit.

Museum of the Americas Photo Gallery

Explore images showcasing the Museum of the Americas in Madrid, from its grand arched entrance and bell tower to intricate golden pre-Columbian sculptures. These visuals capture the diverse history and rich cultural heritage of the American continents, offering a glimpse into the extensive collections on display.

MUSEO DE AMERICA logo with red geometric design
A colonial painting of a man and two boys in ornate blue and gold clothing, standing before a red curtain with a clock and coat of arms visible in the background
A religious painting of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus, adorned in a floral and gold-embroidered robe, set within a golden ornate frame with blue and gold drapery.
Exterior of the Museum of the Americas in Madrid with a large arched entrance, Spanish flag, and surrounding greenery
A painting of an angel with wings and armor standing on a defeated demon, holding a spear and a scale.
The Museum of the Americas building with a tall bell tower and an arched entrance under a blue sky
Exterior of the Museum of the Americas with a tall clock tower and arched entrance under a partly cloudy sky
Golden seated figure sculpture with intricate details and a dark background
The Museum of the Americas building with a tall bell tower and arched entrance, surrounded by trees and a clear blue sky.
A brown ceramic vessel shaped like a fisherman playing a flute, with geometric patterns and a large eye design, displayed on a white pedestal.
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