Museo de Arte Precolombino: A Journey Through Ancient Peruvian Art

Why Visit the Museo de Arte Precolombino? A Window into Peru’s Ancient Artistic Soul

Located in the heart of Cusco, the Museo de Arte Precolombino (MAP) is an essential destination for any traveler with a passion for art and history. This museum is a curated journey through over 3,000 years of Peruvian history, showcasing the incredible artistic achievements of ancient civilizations long before the rise of the Inca. Housed in the magnificent Casa Cabrera, a former Inca ceremonial court, the museum’s exquisite collection is a masterclass in pre-Columbian artistry. Visiting the MAP offers a unique and sophisticated experience, revealing the rich artistic traditions, complex mythologies, and skilled craftsmanship that define Peru’s pre-Hispanic heritage.

What to Expect: Exploring Masterpieces of the Past

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The Historical and Architectural Setting

The museum itself is a work of art. It is located in Casa Cabrera, a beautiful 15th-century Inca ceremonial courthouse that was later converted into a colonial mansion. The building’s architecture is a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial styles, providing a stunning backdrop for the art it houses. Visitors praise the tranquil and well-lit galleries that enhance the viewing experience of the delicate artifacts.

World-Class Collections

The MAP’s collection features over 400 pieces, all curated from the prestigious Larco Museum in Lima. The exhibits are a testament to the advanced artistry of various ancient Peruvian cultures and are organized into several thematic rooms:

• Gold and Silver: This collection showcases the extraordinary metallurgical skills of civilizations like the Mochica, Chimú, and Nazca. It features stunning jewelry, ceremonial adornments, and tools made with incredible precision.
• Ceramics: A highlight of the museum, this collection includes detailed portrait vessels from the Moche civilization and intricate pottery from the Nazca and Chimú cultures. These pieces provide a window into the daily life, beliefs, and artistic expressions of ancient societies.
• Wood and Textiles: The museum displays impressive wooden carvings and intricate, well-preserved textiles. These works demonstrate the complex weaving techniques and vibrant patterns that have been a cornerstone of Andean culture for millennia.
• Thematic Rooms: Other rooms are dedicated to the distinct styles of cultures such as the Huari, Chavín, and Inca, allowing for a rich, comparative overview of pre-Hispanic art.

The Map Café & Gift Shop

The museum experience is completed by the charming Map Café, located in a beautiful, glass-covered courtyard. It is a perfect place to relax with a coffee or a meal and reflect on the art you have seen. The museum also has a gift shop with high-quality replicas and books, allowing you to take a piece of the experience home.

Museum Highlights: A Curated Look at the MAP

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• Exquisite Art: View a curated collection of masterpieces from ancient civilizations like the Moche, Chimú, and Nazca.
• Historical Setting: The museum is housed in the historic Casa Cabrera, a former Inca ceremonial court.
• Gold & Silver: Marvel at the intricate and detailed metalwork of pre-Columbian cultures.
• Portrait Vessels: Admire the unique ceramic portrait vessels that provide a glimpse into ancient faces.
• Map Café: Enjoy a relaxing meal or drink in the museum’s beautiful courtyard cafe.

Sacred Reveal Tip for Your Visit to the MAP

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The Museo de Arte Precolombino is a wonderful place to visit on one of your first days in Cusco, as it provides a comprehensive historical context for all the Inca ruins you will later see. The museum is located in the beautiful San Blas neighborhood, so you can easily combine your visit with a walking tour of the local art studios and shops in the area. The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for all travelers.

he museum is open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. It is also wheelchair accessible and has a cafe, the Map Café, located in a beautifully lit courtyard.

• Address: Nazarenas 231, Cusco 08002, Peru
• Phone: +51 84 595092
• Website: https://mapcusco.pe/
• Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM–10:00 PM
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrance and restroom.

Admission Costs:

• General: S/ 20.00
• Students: S/ 10.00

A map of the museum’s location has been displayed for your convenience. 

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Entities:

• Places: Museo de Arte Precolombino (MAP), Cusco, Casa Cabrera, Larco Museum (Lima), San Blas.
• Cultures: Inca, Moche, Nazca, Chimú, Huari, Paracas, Chavín.
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• Activities/Features: Visiting a museum, art viewing, cultural experience, cafe, gift shop, wheelchair accessibility.
• Objects/Terms: Gold, silver, ceramics, textiles, portrait vessels, ceremonial objects, jewelry.