Contemporary Art Gallery

If you're looking for inspiration in the heart of Xalapa, the **Gallery of Contemporary Art** (GACX) is the perfect stop on your itinerary. More than just a museum, it is a dynamic cultural space housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century historic building known as El Mesón de San Bernardo. Mexico is famous for its ability to blend tradition with the avant-garde, and this gallery is a shining example of that.

One of the gallery's standout features is its commitment to inclusivity. It is designed to be accessible to everyone: Braille signage is available for the visually impaired, and video materials are accompanied by Mexican Sign Language interpretations. The mansion's central courtyard, with its two-story galleries, retains its original colonial charm, creating a striking contrast with the provocative works of contemporary artists.

Visitors appreciate this spot for its constantly rotating temporary exhibitions and cozy atmosphere. A nice bonus is the free admission, making the gallery accessible to all tourists and locals. With high trust ratings among travelers, GACX is rightfully considered one of the region's most high-quality and welcoming venues for experiencing art.

For those planning a visit to this cultural hub, we have prepared reference information with the gallery's current contact details.

Inside the gallery halls, you’ll find regularly changing temporary exhibitions showcasing works by both established masters and emerging talents. Every visit promises to be unique: you might see paintings, sculptures, video art, and conceptual installations. Be sure to pay attention to the architecture itself—a walk through the ancient courtyard allows you to experience the unique scent of wood and stone, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

For those seeking a deeper immersion, the gallery frequently hosts special events. Its auditorium holds art lectures, creative meetups, and concerts. If you’re traveling with family or interested in inclusive practices, look out for the tactile elements of the exhibits, which allow you to literally touch the art.

The best time to visit is on weekday afternoons when the gallery is particularly quiet. It’s the perfect moment to sit in the courtyard and reflect on what you’ve seen or simply enjoy the aesthetics of the space without the hustle and bustle. GACX is a place worth visiting not just for the exhibits, but for the cultural experience itself.

Finding the Gallery of Contemporary Art is quite easy, as it is located in the historic center, within the Zona Centro. If you are already walking around the Juárez Park area, you can reach the entrance on foot in just a few minutes. The exact address is Xalapeños Ilustres 135.

To get around the city, it is convenient to use public transport or a taxi. Most bus routes heading to the center will drop you off within walking distance of the museum. If you prefer a taxi, just give the driver the name of the gallery or the address, and the ride from most parts of the city won't take long.

Travelers arriving in the city via the ADO terminal can reach the gallery by taxi in approximately 10–15 minutes. Note that parking in the central part of the city can be difficult, so walking or taking a taxi are the most comfortable options.

The building that houses the exhibition halls today is known as El Mesón de San Bernardo. Built in the 18th and 19th centuries, it originally served as an inn. Restorers have carefully preserved the building's original appearance: the central courtyard and two-story rooms still convey the atmosphere of the colonial era.

Transforming a historic inn into a contemporary art center was a significant step for the city's cultural life. This synthesis of past and present provides a unique backdrop for artists' work, where modern installations contrast with centuries-old walls, highlighting the continuity of Mexican culture.

The gallery plays a key role in popularizing Contemporary Art in the state of Veracruz. It carries on the traditions of Mexican art, which has always been a tool for self-expression—from pre-Hispanic times to the revolutionary changes of the early 20th century. Today, GACX is a place where history meets innovation and the boldest ideas of young creators.

For a quick look at the current temporary exhibitions, most visitors find about 30–40 minutes sufficient. However, if you want to do more than just view the art and wish to soak in the architecture of the old mansion, we recommend setting aside a bit more time.

Ideally, plan for 1 to 1.5 hours. This will allow you to stroll leisurely through the courtyard, explore the tactile exhibits, and perhaps catch a cultural event. Thanks to the calm atmosphere and lack of crowds, you can spend time here in contemplation, taking a break from the city noise.

The Gallery of Contemporary Art is open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday. Guests are welcome from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Please note that Monday is a closing day, and the museum doors will be shut.

Since event schedules and holiday hours can change, we recommend checking the institution's official website or social media pages before your visit to confirm the current schedule.

A stroll through downtown Xalapa isn't limited to just visiting art galleries. Exploring the surroundings will help you feel the rhythm of this city more deeply and see many interesting locations situated just a few steps away.

Several themed attractions are concentrated near the gallery, which may interest both adults and children, including various aquariums and entertainment zones.