Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Alfredo Zalce (MACAZ)

Imagine an elegant 19th-century summer mansion, where instead of lavish balls, bold and original creativity now reigns. This is how the Alfredo Zalce Museum of Contemporary Art (MACAZ), located in the picturesque city of Morelia, welcomes its guests. This compact yet highly significant cultural center has become home to works reflecting the spirit of the modern era in the heart of historical Mexico.

The museum specializes in plastic arts, presenting visitors with works by both recognized Mexican masters and talented international artists. The building itself is an architectural monument and harmoniously complements the appearance of Morelia, whose historic center is rightfully included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. Here, classical columns and ancient walls meet avant-garde sculptures and installations.

Visiting this place is an excellent opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of tourist routes and immerse yourself in a world of visual images. Thanks to its location near the famous aqueduct, the museum becomes a natural point of attraction for everyone who appreciates aesthetics and wants to better understand contemporary Mexican culture through the lens of Alfredo Zalce's talent and his followers.

To inquire about current exhibitions or organize group visits, you can use the following contact details:

Inside the museum, you will find a rich collection of contemporary plastic arts. Here, you can spend hours examining the details of whimsical sculptures, diving into the meanings of conceptual installations, and studying the painting techniques of Mexican authors. The museum's compact format creates a cozy atmosphere, allowing you to explore the exhibits thoughtfully and without the rush typical of large galleries.

Walking through the halls of the former summer house is a pleasure in itself. High ceilings and the historical layout of the 19th-century mansion create a unique backdrop for contemporary works. Photography enthusiasts will also like it here: the museum's interiors and its courtyard provide excellent angles for creative shots (be sure to check current filming rules at the entrance).

In addition to the permanent exhibition, the museum often hosts temporary exhibitions, cultural events, and creative workshops. This place is ideal for a quiet end to a walk through the city center: after viewing the collection, you can walk to the nearest aqueduct or relax in the shade of neighboring park alleys while discussing what you've seen.

The museum is located in the heart of the historic center at Av Acueducto 18. Thanks to its proximity to Morelia's famous aqueduct, it is easy to find. If you are already walking in the center, the walk from the Cathedral or the Governor's Palace will take only 10–15 minutes at a leisurely pace.

For those who prefer public transport, city buses that run along Acueducto Avenue stop near the museum. A taxi ride from any point in the central part of the city will be quick and inexpensive, usually taking 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic.

If you are arriving from Morelia International Airport, which is located about 27 kilometers from the city, it is most convenient to use an official taxi or book a transfer. The journey to the museum doors will take about 30–45 minutes. For fans of active recreation, you can move through the colonial streets of the city on rented bicycles.

This cultural space was named after the prominent Mexican master Alfredo Zalce (1904–2002). A native of the state of Michoacán, he became one of the central figures of 20th-century Mexican art, famous for his profound works in painting, graphics, and monumental sculpture. The museum was founded not only to preserve Zalce's own heritage but also to serve as a platform for the development of contemporary art in the region.

The museum building itself deserves special attention. It is an elegant 19th-century summer house that is perfectly preserved and is an important element of the city's architectural ensemble. Staying within these walls allows you to feel the spirit of old Morelia, which was founded in 1541 and bore the name Valladolid until 1828.

The museum is harmoniously integrated into the historical context of the area, where the monumental aqueduct, built at the end of the 18th century, is literally around the corner. This proximity emphasizes the continuity of eras: from colonial grandeur to the bold experiments of modern artists. Today, MACAZ is not just a gallery, but a living testimony to how the traditions of Michoacán are transformed into modern visual forms.

To leisurely explore all the halls and temporary exhibitions, a typical visitor will need from 1 to 2 hours. The museum is quite compact, allowing you to study each work in detail and enjoy the architecture of the old mansion without feeling tired.

If you plan to complement your visit with a walk through the adjacent park or a look at the famous aqueduct, we recommend setting aside about 3 hours for this area. This will be enough time to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of contemporary art and enjoy the colonial charm of the historic center.

The museum is open to visitors according to the following schedule: from Monday to Friday, the doors are open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. On weekends (Saturday and Sunday), the museum operates on a slightly shorter schedule—from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Since the schedule may change on holidays or due to the preparation of new exhibitions, it is recommended to check the official website or call for information before your visit.

Morelia is a city literally steeped in history and culture. A visit to the Alfredo Zalce Museum of Contemporary Art can easily be combined with exploring other interesting locations within walking distance or a short taxi ride.

A walk through the surroundings will allow you to see both natural parks and specialized aquariums, which will especially appeal to families with children.