Museo Benito Quinquela Martín Buenos Aires
Discover the vibrant world of Benito Quinquela Martín, Argentina's 'painter of the ports,' in his former home and studio. Explore his art, unique figu...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate
Museo Benito Quinquela Martín Buenos Aires
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the vibrant world of Benito Quinquela Martín, Argentina's 'painter of the ports,' in his former home and studio. Explore his art, unique figureheads, and the soul of La Boca.
"A brilliant museum dedicated to the life of Quinquela and the sharing of Latinoamericano art."
🎨 Admire the Artistry
Don't miss Quinquela's iconic port scenes and his humanitarian legacy.
🚢 Unique Figurehead Collection
Explore what's considered the world's largest collection of ship figureheads.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Quinquela's Masterpieces
Main exhibition halls
Vibrant paintings capturing the essence of Buenos Aires' port life and its hardworking people.
The Artist's Studio & Home
Upper floors
Step into Quinquela's personal space, his former residence and workshop, offering an intimate view of his life.
Figurehead Collection
Specific gallery
Discover what's claimed to be the world's most important collection of ship figureheads.
Rooftop Terraces
Rooftop
Enjoy panoramic views of La Boca and the Riachuelo from the museum's unique outdoor spaces.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
La Boca's Artistic Heart
Best Time to Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🎨 Admire the Artistry
Don't miss Quinquela's iconic port scenes and his humanitarian legacy. 
🚢 Unique Figurehead Collection
Explore what's considered the world's largest collection of ship figureheads.
🏠 Step into His Home
Experience Quinquela's personal living space and studio, offering a unique perspective.
🏙️ Rooftop Views
Enjoy scenic views of La Boca from the museum's terraces.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎨 Admire the Artistry
Don't miss Quinquela's iconic port scenes and his humanitarian legacy.
🚢 Unique Figurehead Collection
Explore what's considered the world's largest collection of ship figureheads.
🏠 Step into His Home
Experience Quinquela's personal living space and studio, offering a unique perspective.
🏙️ Rooftop Views
Enjoy scenic views of La Boca from the museum's terraces.
🤝 Friendly Staff
Visitors often praise the accommodating and friendly museum staff.
📍 La Boca Location
Located in the colorful La Boca neighborhood, combine your visit with exploring the area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Museo Benito Quinquela Martín for its brilliant curation, highlighting the life and art of Quinquela, as well as its significant collection of figureheads and Argentine art. The museum's setting in the artist's original home and the friendly staff are frequently mentioned positives. Some minor critiques point to the limited seating and shade on outdoor terraces.
"Brilliant museum dedicated to the life of Quinquela and the sharing of Latinoamericano art, particularly Argentinian and from Buenos Aires. Exceptionally well curated, and also includes contemporary artist exhibitions alongside figureheads from 19th century ships sank off the Argentine coast. Super interesting and would recommend highly. The staff were also really accommodating with storing our large bags. Thank you guys!"
Perfect Exposure
"It was a nice stop while in La Boca, very interesting to learn about Quinquela’s life, his impact on Argentinian culture and his humanitarian legacy. Very nice to see his house and his particular style as well as some of his paintings representing the port worker’s life."
A. F.
"The kitchen! Beyond the kitchen, there is an outdoor terrace that used to extend further than it currently does, there are numerous statues and busts still there, nowhere to sit or with shade. All the love is inside.
Highly recommended also is the musical of the artist's life, BENITO"
Raymond E Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in the La Boca neighborhood at Av. Pedro de Mendoza 1843. You can reach it by bus, with several lines stopping nearby. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also convenient options for navigating Buenos Aires.
Parking in La Boca can be challenging due to its popularity. It's advisable to consider public transport or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
Absolutely! The museum is a central point in La Boca. After your visit, you can explore the colorful Caminito street and the surrounding area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 11:15 AM to 6:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays. Always check the official website for the most current hours.
Admission is usually a 'bono contribución' (contribution fee). Prices have varied, with recent reports around $200-$500 ARS. It's best to confirm the current price before your visit.
While some museums in Buenos Aires offer free entry on certain days, information about specific free days for Museo Benito Quinquela Martín is not consistently highlighted. It's recommended to check their official channels for any special promotions.
Yes, visitors have reported that the museum staff are accommodating and can store larger bags, making it easier to explore.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted inside the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or in certain exhibition areas.
The rooftop terraces offer great views of La Boca and the Riachuelo. The colorful exterior of the building and the unique figureheads also make for excellent photo opportunities.
Focus on capturing the vibrant colors and dynamic scenes in Quinquela's paintings of port life. His personal studio also offers a unique glimpse into his creative process.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically have a restaurant. However, the La Boca neighborhood, especially around Caminito, offers numerous cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine.
In La Boca, you'll find traditional Argentine fare, including parrillas (grills), empanadas, and other local specialties. Many places offer outdoor seating, perfect for people-watching.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The museum primarily showcases the life and works of Benito Quinquela Martín, the renowned 'painter of the ports,' and also features Argentine figurative art and a significant collection of ship figureheads. +1
It's housed in Quinquela's former home and studio, offering an intimate look at his life. The collection of figureheads is also a major draw, claimed to be the world's most important. +1
Absolutely. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in Argentine art, particularly the works of Quinquela and the art inspired by Buenos Aires' maritime history.
Quinquela founded the 'Order of the Screw' (La Orden del Tornillo), a group that celebrated coherence, madness, and art as a path to good, truth, and beauty. This reflects his unique philosophy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the more visually striking elements, like the figureheads and the colorful terraces. The museum's former home setting also offers a more relatable scale than vast, impersonal galleries. While there aren't specific children's activity areas, the overall experience of exploring a historic artist's home in a unique neighborhood can be memorable.
🎨 Art Lovers & Culture Seekers
Beyond Quinquela's work, the museum offers a curated selection of Argentine figurative art and the extraordinary figurehead collection. It provides a deep dive into a specific, yet crucial, aspect of Buenos Aires' identity – its connection to the sea and its working-class heritage. The intimate setting of his former home adds a personal touch to the artistic experience.
🚶 Day-Trippers from Buenos Aires
Combine your museum visit with a stroll through Caminito and perhaps a taste of local cuisine. The museum is easily accessible by public transport or taxi, making it a convenient addition to any Buenos Aires itinerary. Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the museum and its surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Benito Quinquela Martín
+1Quinquela's impact extended far beyond his canvases. He was a philanthropist and a visionary who believed in making art accessible to everyone. He designed this very museum to be his home and studio, later donating it to the state. He also founded the Teatro de la Ribera, aiming to bring theater and art to the community. His 'Order of the Screw' was a testament to his belief in the power of art and creativity.
+1Visiting the Museo Benito Quinquela Martín is an opportunity to connect with this multifaceted artist and his enduring legacy. You'll not only see his powerful artwork but also gain insight into his life, his community, and his profound dedication to Argentine culture.
+1Exploring La Boca's Vibrant Atmosphere
La Boca's visual appeal is undeniable, with its corrugated iron houses painted in a rainbow of hues. This tradition is said to have originated from sailors painting their homes with leftover ship paint. The area is also closely associated with the Boca Juniors football club, one of Argentina's most famous teams, and their stadium, La Bombonera, is a significant landmark nearby.
Be aware that while La Boca is a major tourist attraction, it's still a working-class neighborhood. It's advisable to stay within the main tourist areas, especially around Caminito and the museum, and be mindful of your surroundings.
The Fascinating Figurehead Collection
These figureheads, often depicting mythological figures, animals, or human forms, represent a lost era of seafaring. They offer a tangible connection to the voyages and adventures of ships that sailed the seas. The sheer variety and craftsmanship on display are remarkable, providing a unique historical and artistic experience that complements Quinquela's own work.
Exploring this collection provides a different perspective on Buenos Aires' connection to the sea and its port heritage. It's a chance to see intricate carvings that have weathered countless journeys, each with its own story to tell.
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