MuseumRufino Tamayo Museum of Mexican Pre-Columbian ArtOaxaca

The Rufino Tamayo Museum of Mexican Pre-Columbian Art was opened on January 29, 1974. It is a testimony to the importance and value of pre-Columbian mexican art.

As a young man, Tamayo became interested in and felt an affinity for the Pre Columbian world which became part of his self identity.

This interest inspired his art throughout his lifetime and led him to collect the masterpieces which he donated as a museum to Oaxaca, his native city.

To house the collection, a viceregal period mansion wad donated by the State Government.

It has beed said that the three greatest periods of Mexican Art have been joined together in this museum :

the Pre Columbian period, represented by the collection;
the Colonial Period, by the beautiful building where it is housed;
and the Modern Era, by the attitude of the modern artist who acknowledged the valor of the art, selected it, and put in a setting that reflects its true merit.

The collection has been divided into five rooms, each indicated by a different color, chosen by Tamayo.

Throughout the year the museum organizes concerts, workshops, conferences, and other events to disseminate Mexican culture.

The Museum opens everyday but Tuesday, from 10:00 a.m.to 2:00 p.m and from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Sunday from 10:00 a.m to 3:00 p.m.

It’s closed January 1st, Holy Friday, May 1st, September 16th, November 2nd and December 25th.

General Admission: $40 pesos.