Welcome to the Costa Rican Museum of Art (Museo de Arte Costarricense, or MAC), an essential stop during your visit to San José, Costa Rica. When you step inside, you will experience a unique blend of national history and creativity housed within a historic landmark. The museum resides in the former terminal building of La Sabana International Airport, which originally opened in 1940 and was named an architectural heritage of Costa Rica in 1986.
Opened as a museum in 1978 and reopened following renovations in 2011, MAC holds an impressive collection of over 6,000 artworks spanning from the mid-1800s to the present day. Because the space exhibits around 150 pieces at a time, your tour offers an intimate look at Costa Rica's artistic evolution. You will get to view notable masterpieces like Francisco Amighetti's 1948 mural Agriculture, which commemorates the Costa Rican Civil War, along with a stunning mural by Louis Féron.
The display features captivating creations by expressionist painter Teodorico Quirós, abstract artist Lola Fernández, and sculptor Juan Rafael Chacón. Located in La Sabana Metropolitan Park, this museum provides a captivating cultural destination where you can admire rich heritage, memorable murals, and remarkable national art.
What to see at Costa Rican Museum of Art
- Explore a vast collection of over 6,000 artworks dating from the mid-1800s to the present day
- View Francisco Amighetti's 1948 mural, Agriculture, commemorating the Costa Rican Civil War
- Tour an official architectural heritage site located in the former La Sabana airport terminal
- Admire featured pieces by Teodorico Quirós, Lola Fernández, Juan Rafael Chacón, and Louis Féron
Visiting tips
Keep in mind that while the museum owns over 6,000 artworks, only about 150 pieces are displayed at any one time.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Costa Rican Museum of Art 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.