Beautiful view of Museo de Arte Miguel Urrutia -MAMU-

Museo de Arte Miguel Urrutia -MAMU-

Bogota, Columbia
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Beautiful view of Museo de Arte Miguel Urrutia -MAMU-

Within the heart of Bogotá’s historic district sits a vibrant pulse of Colombian creativity: the Museo de Arte Miguel Urrutia, or MAMU. More than just a venue for paintings and sculptures, this museum serves as a meeting ground for art lovers, locals, and curious travelers. Every hallway hums with a mix of classic tradition and bold experimentation—sometimes quiet, sometimes bustling, always scene-shifting. In a city of many galleries, MAMU stands out for its blend of history, modern perspectives, and palpable energy.

Visiting Info

Currency
Entrance fee
12000 COP
Hours
Opening hours
Monday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Contact Information

Location
Address
Cl. 11 #4-21, La Candelaria, Bogotá, Cundinamarca, Colombia

Planning your visit

A trip to Museo de Arte Miguel Urrutia works best with a bit of planning. Located smack in Bogotá’s La Candelaria neighborhood, the museum feels accessible by foot from many nearby sights—though a taxi or TransMilenio bus makes arrival even easier. Weekends and holidays bring bigger crowds, while a mid-morning weekday rewards visitors with quiet galleries and unhurried contemplation. Tickets, affordable by museum standards, are available at the entrance; advanced booking rarely proves necessary except during major exhibitions. Crowds are reasonable, but school field trips and art students sometimes filter in, especially in the afternoons. Wide ramps and elevators ensure ease for strollers and wheelchairs, making this spot friendly for families and seniors alike.

  • Best time to visit: Weekday mornings for quiet galleries
  • How to get there: TransMilenio bus (Museo del Oro station), taxi, or walk from central La Candelaria
  • Accessibility: Fully wheelchair and stroller accessible; easy navigation for seniors
  • Average visit duration: 1.5–3 hours, depending on interest

Must see stuff

Museo de Arte Miguel Urrutia splits its collection across several thoughtful galleries, each shining a light on different parts of Colombia’s visual heritage. The building itself blends colonial elegance with modern edges—exposed beams, big windows, and open-air courtyards. Permanent exhibitions dive into centuries of Colombian art, from pre-Columbian works and 19th-century portraits to bold contemporary installations. Rotating shows often explore themes of identity, memory, and political change. For first-timers, the museum’s organization makes it easy to go from floor to floor, discovering everything from rare prints to avant-garde photography. Some rooms surprise with interactive exhibits or immersive sculptures. The onsite café and shaded courtyard invite lingering, especially after a morning of gallery gazing. Those looking for one-of-a-kind souvenirs will enjoy the museum shop’s selection of local crafts and art books.

  • Top galleries: Permanent Collection (Colombian & Latin American Art), Contemporary Art Floor, Pre-Columbian and Colonial Galleries
  • Unique experiences: Guided tours (free at set times), live artist talks, immersive installation rooms
  • Photo-worthy locations: Open-air courtyard, grand staircase, window views over La Candelaria rooftops
  • Cultural gems: The mural by Débora Arango, Fernando Botero sketches, and rare pieces by emerging Colombian artists

Tips for your visit

Planning allows for a smooth, enjoyable day at MAMU. While most galleries feel peaceful, busiest hours—lunch and late afternoon—see a spike in visitors. Weekdays after opening are quietest. A sturdy pair of walking shoes will make exploring the multi-level building easier. Visitors often forget to check out the smaller, tucked-away galleries, where lesser-known Colombian artists hang side by side with trailblazers. Bags and large coats must be checked at the entrance, but lockers are secure and convenient. Photos are allowed in most areas, but always check for signage before snapping away. Water is best bought in the café, as open containers in exhibit rooms are discouraged. Many staff speak basic English and love to share suggestions, but Spanish helps deepen understanding and interaction.

  • Best times to avoid crowds: Early opening hours or late afternoons on weekdays
  • What to bring: Small bag, camera, ID for lockers, comfortable shoes
  • Etiquette: Respect quiet zones, ask before photographing people, turn off cellphone ringers
  • Comfort and safety: Secure personal belongings, use designated cloakroom for large items, stay hydrated with café visits