Founded in 1994, the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MADC) in San José is Costa Rica's premier destination for exploring contemporary Central American art and design alongside compelling international works. Occupying roughly 1,200 square meters in the nation's capital, MADC offers you a deep dive into the aesthetic, cultural, and social issues shaping the region and the wider world. When you visit, you will encounter a permanent collection of over 900 pieces from both young and established artists.
The collection spans diverse media, including painting, photography, sculpture, etchings, installations, intervened objects, and video art, with curated selections rotated through the galleries each year. The museum features four exhibition rooms, an auditorium, and the open-air Pila de la Melaza, a vibrant space dedicated to outdoor installations, performances, and dynamic events. Beyond traditional gallery spaces, you can explore digital art projects, video-based exhibitions, and emerging artist showcases.
Whether you are browsing through curated shows or visiting the dedicated Documentation Centre and Video Library to study video art and exhibition catalogs, MADC delivers a thoughtful, authentic look into modern artistic expression. It is a must-see spot for any traveler seeking a rich cultural connection in Costa Rica.
What to see at Museum of Contemporary Art and Design
- Permanent collection featuring over 900 works in diverse media
- Four exhibition rooms displaying rotated national and international contemporary art
- Open-air Pila de la Melaza space hosting live performances and installations
- On-site Documentation Centre and Video Library with art books and catalogs
- Dynamic programming including digital art exhibitions and video-cinema screenings
Visiting tips
Be sure to stop by the Pila de la Melaza, an open-air area within the museum designed specifically for unique performance art and outdoor installations.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Museum of Contemporary Art and Design is easy to reach on San José’s public transport, and pairs naturally with National Theatre of Costa Rica and Museum of Jade and Pre-Columbian Culture. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our San José travel guide.
See the full San José travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.