Located in Xalapa, the capital of Veracruz in eastern Mexico, the Xalapa Museum of Anthropology (MAX) is considered the second-most important anthropology museum in Mexico, right after Mexico City's National Museum of Anthropology. Part of Veracruzana University, the museum resides in a modern facility completed in 1986, which was designed by Edward Durell Stone and architect Paul Balev of EDSA. When you visit, you will explore an exceptional collection of artifacts from Mesoamerican Gulf Coast cultures, specifically the Olmec, Totonac, and Huastec civilizations.
The museum is especially famous for housing several massive Olmec colossal heads, alongside thousands of historic items. Some of these remarkable ancient pieces date back to the Early Pre-Classic Period between 1300 BC and 900 BC. Evolving over fifty years from a small collection that was once placed in a building on the street, the institution now presents its rich historical, artistic, and cultural heritage through engaging exhibits designed to promote learning for all visitors.
It is an absolute must-see destination for anyone traveling through eastern Mexico who wants to discover the profound history of the region's earliest complex societies.
What to see at Museo de Antropología de Xalapa
- Marvel at several famous Olmec colossal heads
- Explore artifacts from the Olmec, Totonac, and Huastec cultures
- View ancient pieces dating back to the Early Pre-Classic Period (1300 BC to 900 BC)
- Admire the 1986 museum architecture designed by Edward Durell Stone
- Experience Mexico's second-most important anthropology museum
Visiting tips
Take advantage of guided tours if you are visiting with family or school groups to enjoy a fun, creative, and meaningful learning experience.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Museo de Antropología de Xalapa is easy to reach on Veracruz’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Tajín Veracruz and Tres Zapotes. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Veracruz travel guide.
See the full Veracruz travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.