Museums in San Salvador: Which to Visit

San Salvador has several museums worth visiting if you are interested in art, history or archaeology. You can combine one or two with a visit to the historic centre on the same day. This guide sums up the most relevant ones.

Must-See Museums

• Museo de Arte (MARTE): Salvadoran and international art, temporary exhibitions and permanent collection. One of the most complete. Closed Monday; check hours.
• National Museum of Anthropology (MUNA): archaeology and history of El Salvador, from pre-Hispanic times to the present. Very educational. Ideal if you are also going to Joya de Cerén or Tazumal.
• National Palace Museum: inside the National Palace in the centre; history of the building and the country. Combine with the Cathedral and main square.
• Tin Marín (children's museum): if you travel with kids, it is interactive and fun.

Other Museums

• Museo de la Imagen y la Palabra (MUPI): photography, film and memory; exhibitions on culture and conflict.
• Military Museum: if you are interested in the country's military history; located in military facilities.

Practical Tips

• Hours: most close Monday or one day a week; check before you go.
• Admission: usually cheap; bring cash in case they do not take cards.
• Half a day is enough for one or two museums; if you want to see more of the city, check what to see in San Salvador.