The Monterey Museum of Contemporary Art in Monterrey is one of the more remarkable museums in all of Mexico. For lovers of modern art, this is one of those places that are truly worth checking out.
Location
The museum is in the city of Monterrey. This is at Nuevo Leon state at northeast Mexico. It is at the Sierra Madre Oriental foothills. The museum is in the center of the city.
What to See
The museum encompasses an area of 16,000 square meters. The 11 exhibition halls hold 5,000 square meters. The museum is noted for its sculpture yard and the restaurant. There is also a gift shop and auditorium.
There is also a water mirror. However, the biggest attractions at the Monterey Museum of Contemporary Art are the art collections. The works of Ricardo Mazal, Antony Gormley and Jenny Holzer are displayed.
History
Before the Europeans arrived, the people living in the area were the Chichimecas, a group of indigenous semi-nomad people. They were made up of four groups: the Borrados, Coahuiltecos, Huachichiles and Azalapas. During the 16th century, the site became known as Extremadura Valley. Alberto del Canto tried to colonize the area and called it Santa Lucia.
However, the attacks on the population forced them to flee. Later on, Luis Carabajal y de la Cueva set up a territory called Nuevo Leon, the “New Kingdom of Leon”. In 1582, he set up the place that would become the modern day Monterrey.
Cost
The entry fee is $ 60. Children between 6 to 15 years of age are charged $ 35. That is also the charge for students who can present a valid ID and seniors with INAPAM credentials. Children under 5 years of age are free to enter. The ticket office closes at 7:15 pm.
The expenses depend on how long you plan to stay in the country and where. A week long stay in Mexico will cost at least 2000 USD. If you want to buy some souvenirs and shop, about 3,000 USD will be needed for a week long stay.
Other Info
Apart from the museum, there are other interesting landmarks in the city. These include the Santa Lucia Riverwalk, the Cerro de la Silla (Saddle Mountain) and the La Macroplaza. There is also the Faro del Comercio (Lighthouse of Commerce).
The Monterey Museum of Contemporary Art is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays beginning at 10:00 am until 6:00 pm. On Wednesdays it is open from 10:00 am until 8:00 pm. On Mondays it is closed.
