National Museum of Fine Arts of Cuba 🇨🇺

If you want to immerse yourself in Cuba's vibrant artistic heritage, the National Museum of Fine Arts of Havana (Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes de La Habana) is an essential stop on your itinerary. Founded in 1913 through the efforts of architect and first director Emilio Heredia, this institution is now housed across two distinct, striking buildings. You can explore the dedicated Palacio de Bellas Artes, designed by Rodríguez Pichardo and opened in 1954, which focuses exclusively on native talent.

As you stroll its halls, you will trace Cuban art from the 17th century through contemporary generations. Discover historical rooms filled with 17th- to 19th-century landscapes, religious subjects, and Costumbrismo scenes depicting everyday local life, alongside a 1970s gallery showcasing Hyperrealism and symbolic modern works. You will see notable pieces by René Portocarrero and Wifredo Lam, plus works by artists like Víctor Manuel, Mariano Rodriguez, and Carlos Enríquez Gómez.

Beyond national treasures, you can cross over to the Palacio del Centro Asturiano—a former Asturian club built in 1927 by Manuel Bustos that later housed the Supreme Court—to admire ancient art alongside European paintings and sculptures. It offers you a complete artistic journey in Havana.

What to see at National Museum of Fine Arts of Cuba

• Palacio de Bellas Artes housing exclusive Cuban art collections from the 17th century to contemporary works
• Notable masterworks by renowned Cuban artists René Portocarrero and Wifredo Lam
• Costumbrismo narrative scenes, landscapes, and 1970s Hyperrealism gallery
• Palacio del Centro Asturiano featuring European paintings, sculptures, and ancient art collections
• Modernist outdoor sculpture by noted Cuban artist Rita Lonja at the main entrance

Visiting tips

Be sure to visit both museum buildings—the Palacio de Bellas Artes for local works and the historic Palacio del Centro Asturiano for European and ancient art.

How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

National Museum of Fine Arts of Cuba is easy to reach on Havana’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Havana Cathedral and Museum of the Revolution. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Havana travel guide.