Museo de Arte Costarricense (MAC), San Jose (must see)

The Museo de Arte Costarricense has been built into an old air terminal building at the Parque la Sabana. At one point in time, this location was the main airport for the whole area. The airport has since been moved to a new location.

The museum features the paintings of Costa Rican artists, with permanent exhibits including the works of Teodorico Quiros, Margarita Berthau, and Enrique Echandi. There are also some works on display from artists outside the country, such as paintings from Diego Rivera and Alexander Calder.

Pay attention to the overall architecture here, for there are many wall paintings that portray the history of the lives of the Costa Rican people. The wood carvings are also quite stunning, as many of them are overlaid in gold.

Why You Should Visit:
The curating of both the permanent & temporary exhibits is unsurpassed – you could spend hours with either, as well as with the magnificent mural in the upstairs lounge.
This museum is free and surely one of the art highlights of San José, besides being a wonderfully kept historic place!

Tip:
Don't miss the sculptures and beautiful garden outside.