S
Bronze bust of Aristodemo Lattanzi by Carlos Canut de Bon

Santiago Museum Of Contemporary Art

Santiago, Chile

Santiago Museum of Contemporary Art: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Santiago Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in Santiago’s cultural heart, the Santiago Museum of Contemporary Art (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, MAC) is one of Chile’s leading art institutions, renowned for its dynamic exhibitions, impressive collections, and architectural heritage. Established in 1947 under the University of Chile’s Faculty of Arts, MAC operates from two iconic locations—Palacio de Bellas Artes in Parque Forestal and Palacio Versailles in Quinta Normal Park. With a collection of over 3,000 works, the museum showcases Chilean and international artists and serves as a vibrant center for creativity, education, and community engagement. This guide offers essential information—from visiting hours and accessibility to highlights and nearby attractions—to help you plan an enriching visit (MAC Official Website).

Contents

Visiting Hours and Tickets

  • MAC Parque Forestal (Palacio de Bellas Artes):
    Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • MAC Quinta Normal (Palacio Versailles):
    Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Closed: Mondays and public holidays

Admission: General entry is free at both venues, supporting MAC’s mission of accessibility and inclusion. Some special exhibitions or events may charge a small fee—please check the official website for up-to-date details.


Locations and Accessibility

Parque Forestal Site

  • Address: José Miguel de la Barra 650, Santiago.
  • Metro: Bellas Artes station (Line 5).
  • Setting: Housed within the historic Palacio de Bellas Artes, sharing the building with the National Museum of Fine Arts, and surrounded by the leafy Parque Forestal.

Quinta Normal Site

  • Address: Matucana 464, Santiago.
  • Metro: Quinta Normal station (Line 5).
  • Setting: Located in Palacio Versailles within Quinta Normal Park, near museums such as the National Museum of Natural History.

Accessibility:
Both sites are wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Staff are available to assist visitors with special needs. For further details, visit the MAC accessibility information page.


Guided Tours and Events

MAC offers guided tours in Spanish and, on occasion, English. Tours provide deeper insights into current exhibitions and the museum’s history. Group and educational tours can be scheduled in advance via the museum’s website. MAC also hosts workshops, artist talks, and cultural events throughout the year, fostering community engagement.


Historical Evolution and Cultural Significance

Founding and Early Years

Established in 1947, MAC began in the El Partenón building, Chile’s first fine arts museum, in Quinta Normal Park. It was created to champion contemporary Chilean and international art, with early curators like Marco Aurelio Bontá Costa shaping its direction.

Transition and Growth

In 1974, MAC relocated to the Palacio de Bellas Artes, a Beaux-Arts landmark designed by Emile Jéquier. In 2005, the museum expanded to operate from two sites, increasing its exhibition capacity and audience reach (MAC Mission and Vision).

Cultural Role

MAC is both an art museum and an educational institution, fostering creativity, diversity, and social inclusion. Its programs spotlight emerging and marginalized voices, encouraging critical reflection on contemporary issues.


Permanent Collections and Temporary Exhibitions

Permanent Collection

MAC’s holdings of over 3,000 works reflect Chilean artistic evolution alongside global trends. Highlights include paintings and sculptures by Chilean icons such as Roberto Matta, Matilde Pérez, Nemesio Antúnez, and Gracia Barrios. The collection also features international artists like Isamu Noguchi and Friedensreich Hundertwasser.

Temporary Exhibitions

MAC’s rotating exhibitions cover a wide range of contemporary themes—identity, migration, memory, and environmental change—often incorporating new media, video art, and installations. International collaborations bring global perspectives to Santiago’s art scene, while educational exhibitions support emerging talent from the University of Chile (WhichMuseum).


Architectural Features and Visitor Experience

Palacio de Bellas Artes (Parque Forestal)

  • Style: Early 20th-century Beaux-Arts, with grand façades, a glazed metal dome, and ornate detailing (Architectuul).
  • Interiors: Double-height galleries, natural light, and flexible spaces ideal for large-scale installations.

Palacio Versailles (Quinta Normal)

  • Style: Historic elegance in a park setting, with spacious galleries and tranquil surroundings.

Both venues offer rest areas, cloakrooms, and are located near cafés and bookstores—perfect for combining art with relaxation.


Amenities and Services

  • Restrooms and cloakrooms are available at both venues.
  • Seating areas are located throughout the galleries.
  • Family-friendly workshops and educational resources are offered regularly.
  • Onsite staff can assist with accessibility and visitor inquiries.

Photography Policy and Tips

  • Photography: Non-flash photography is generally permitted, except where indicated for special exhibitions.
  • Tips: Visit in the morning for a quieter experience. Respect signage and guidelines to help preserve the art.

Nearby Attractions

Make the most of your visit by exploring these nearby highlights:

  • Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes: Adjacent to MAC Parque Forestal.
  • Centro Gabriela Mistral: A hub for theater and music.
  • Museum of Precolombian Art: A short distance away.
  • Quinta Normal Park: Home to the National Museum of Natural History and Railway Museum.
  • Parque Forestal: Ideal for walks and picnics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the museum’s opening hours?

  • Parque Forestal: Tue–Sun, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
  • Quinta Normal: Tue–Sun, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM
    Closed Mondays.

Is admission free?
Yes, general entry is free. Some special events may have a fee.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, in Spanish and sometimes English. Book in advance if possible.

Is the museum accessible for people with disabilities?
Both venues are wheelchair accessible and staff can assist as needed.

Can I take photos inside the museum?
Photography (without flash) is allowed in most areas; check for restrictions at the entrance.


Plan Your Visit

  • Check the official website for the latest exhibition schedules, ticket info for special events, and accessibility details.
  • Download the Audiala app for audio guides and interactive maps.
  • Follow MAC on social media for updates and event announcements.
  • Combine your visit with nearby museums and cultural sites for a full Santiago experience.

Conclusion

The Santiago Museum of Contemporary Art stands as a beacon of artistic innovation and cultural preservation. With its dual venues, free admission, accessible facilities, and diverse programming, MAC is an essential destination for engaging with Chile’s contemporary art and history. Whether you are exploring iconic architecture, attending a workshop, or discovering new art forms, MAC offers inspiration and insight for every visitor. Enhance your experience by exploring nearby historical sites and using digital tools like the Audiala app for a personalized cultural journey.


References


Visit The Most Interesting Places In Santiago

Academy Of Christian Humanism University
Academy Of Christian Humanism University
Adolfo Ibáñez University
Adolfo Ibáñez University
Alberto Hurtado University
Alberto Hurtado University
Andrés Bello University
Andrés Bello University
Barrio Lastarria
Barrio Lastarria
|
  Bernardo O'Higgins University
| Bernardo O'Higgins University
Biblioteca De Santiago
Biblioteca De Santiago
Bolivarian University Of Chile
Bolivarian University Of Chile
Campos De Sports De Ñuñoa
Campos De Sports De Ñuñoa
Casa Central De La Universidad De Chile
Casa Central De La Universidad De Chile
Casa Colorada
Casa Colorada
Casa De Santo Domingo 627
Casa De Santo Domingo 627
Casa Espínola Pereira
Casa Espínola Pereira
Castillo Hidalgo
Castillo Hidalgo
Caupolicán Theatre
Caupolicán Theatre
Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral
Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral
Centro Cultural La Moneda
Centro Cultural La Moneda
Cerro Alvarado
Cerro Alvarado
|
  Children'S Museum
| Children'S Museum
Chilean-British Culture University
Chilean-British Culture University
Chilean Museum Of Pre-Columbian Art
Chilean Museum Of Pre-Columbian Art
Chilean National History Museum
Chilean National History Museum
Chilean National Museum Of Fine Arts
Chilean National Museum Of Fine Arts
Chilean National Museum Of Natural History
Chilean National Museum Of Natural History
Chilean National Zoo
Chilean National Zoo
Club De La Unión
Club De La Unión
Costanera Center
Costanera Center
Daniel Zamudio
Daniel Zamudio
Diego Portales University
Diego Portales University
|
  Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, Santiago
| Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, Santiago
Estación Mapocho Cultural Center
Estación Mapocho Cultural Center
Estadio Monumental
Estadio Monumental
Estadio Municipal De Lo Barnechea
Estadio Municipal De Lo Barnechea
Estadio San Carlos De Apoquindo
Estadio San Carlos De Apoquindo
Estadio Santa Laura-Universidad Sek
Estadio Santa Laura-Universidad Sek
Fantasilandia
Fantasilandia
Former National Congress Building
Former National Congress Building
Fuente De Neptuno, Santiago De Chile
Fuente De Neptuno, Santiago De Chile
Funicular De Santiago
Funicular De Santiago
Gabriela Mistral Gallery
Gabriela Mistral Gallery
Gabriela Mistral University
Gabriela Mistral University
Hipódromo Chile
Hipódromo Chile
Hospital Militar De Santiago
Hospital Militar De Santiago
Hospital San Juan De Dios
Hospital San Juan De Dios
Instituto Geográfico Militar
Instituto Geográfico Militar
Internado Nacional Barros Arana
Internado Nacional Barros Arana
La Chascona
La Chascona
Laura Vicuña
Laura Vicuña
Londres 38
Londres 38
Los Héroes
Los Héroes
Luis Emilio Recabarren
Luis Emilio Recabarren
Mercado Central De Santiago
Mercado Central De Santiago
Metropolitan University Of Educational Sciences
Metropolitan University Of Educational Sciences
Metropolitan University Of Technology
Metropolitan University Of Technology
Monumento A Salvador Allende, Santiago De Chile
Monumento A Salvador Allende, Santiago De Chile
Movistar Arena
Movistar Arena
Municipal Theatre Of Santiago
Municipal Theatre Of Santiago
Museo Colonial
Museo Colonial
Museo De Artes Visuales
Museo De Artes Visuales
Museo De Colo-Colo
Museo De Colo-Colo
Museo De La Solidaridad Salvador Allende
Museo De La Solidaridad Salvador Allende
Museo Ferroviario De Santiago
Museo Ferroviario De Santiago
Museo La Merced
Museo La Merced
Museo Nacional Benjamín Vicuña Mackenna
Museo Nacional Benjamín Vicuña Mackenna
Museo Parque De Las Esculturas De Providencia
Museo Parque De Las Esculturas De Providencia
Museum Of Chemistry And Pharmacy Of The University Of Chile
Museum Of Chemistry And Pharmacy Of The University Of Chile
Museum Of Memory And Human Rights
Museum Of Memory And Human Rights
National Library Of Chile
National Library Of Chile
Nave Centro Creativo
Nave Centro Creativo
Palace Of The Royal Consulate Court Of Santiago
Palace Of The Royal Consulate Court Of Santiago
Palacio Cousiño
Palacio Cousiño
Palacio De La Moneda
Palacio De La Moneda
Palacio De La Real Aduana De Santiago
Palacio De La Real Aduana De Santiago
Palacio De La Real Audiencia De Santiago
Palacio De La Real Audiencia De Santiago
Palacio De Los Tribunales De Justicia De Santiago
Palacio De Los Tribunales De Justicia De Santiago
Panul Forest
Panul Forest
Parque Araucano
Parque Araucano
Parque Brasil
Parque Brasil
Parque Mahuida
Parque Mahuida
Parque Mapocho Poniente
Parque Mapocho Poniente
Parque Natural Aguas De Ramón
Parque Natural Aguas De Ramón
Parque Natural San Carlos De Apoquindo
Parque Natural San Carlos De Apoquindo
|
  Parque O'Higgins Circuit
| Parque O'Higgins Circuit
Parque Peñalolén
Parque Peñalolén
Plaza De Armas (Santiago)
Plaza De Armas (Santiago)
Plaza De La Ciudadanía
Plaza De La Ciudadanía
Plaza De La Constitución
Plaza De La Constitución
Plaza Mulato Gil De Castro
Plaza Mulato Gil De Castro
Pontifical Catholic University Of Chile
Pontifical Catholic University Of Chile
Presidente Pedro Aguirre Cerda
Presidente Pedro Aguirre Cerda
Public Health Institute Of Chile
Public Health Institute Of Chile
Real Universidad De San Felipe
Real Universidad De San Felipe
San Miguel
San Miguel
San Sebastián University
San Sebastián University
Sanctuary On San Cristóbal Hill
Sanctuary On San Cristóbal Hill
Santiago Metropolitan Park
Santiago Metropolitan Park
Santiago Museum Of Contemporary Art
Santiago Museum Of Contemporary Art
Santiago Street Circuit
Santiago Street Circuit
Seguro Obrero Massacre
Seguro Obrero Massacre
Sek University Chile
Sek University Chile
Teresa Of The Andes
Teresa Of The Andes
Titanium La Portada
Titanium La Portada
Torre Entel
Torre Entel
Universidad Católica Silva Henríquez
Universidad Católica Silva Henríquez
Universidad Central De Chile
Universidad Central De Chile
Universidad De Los Andes
Universidad De Los Andes
Universidad Finis Terrae
Universidad Finis Terrae
Universidad La República
Universidad La República
Universidad Mayor
Universidad Mayor
Universidad Santo Tomás
Universidad Santo Tomás
University For The Arts, Sciences, And Communication
University For The Arts, Sciences, And Communication
University Of Alba
University Of Alba
University Of Art And Social Sciences
University Of Art And Social Sciences
University Of Informatics Sciences
University Of Informatics Sciences
University Of Santiago
University Of Santiago
University Of The Americas
University Of The Americas
University Of The Pacific
University Of The Pacific
Workshop Museum
Workshop Museum