MATE - Mario Testino Museum Lima
Discover the vibrant world of Mario Testino's iconic photography at MATE, Lima's free museum celebrating Peruvian art and culture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
MATE - Mario Testino Museum Lima
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the vibrant world of Mario Testino's iconic photography at MATE, Lima's free museum celebrating Peruvian art and culture.
"Free admission to see stunning fashion photography by Mario Testino in Lima's Miraflores."
🎯 Free Admission Alert!
Enjoy the MATE museum without an entry fee! Perfect for budget travelers exploring Lima's art scene. :moneywithwings:
📸 Capture the Moments
Photography is encouraged, so bring your camera or phone to snap shots of the incredible art and exhibits. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mario Testino's Iconic Photography
Main Exhibition Halls
Immerse yourself in the striking fashion and portrait photography of Mario Testino, a visual feast for art lovers.
Peruvian Culture & Heritage
Various Galleries
Discover how Testino's lens captures the essence and spirit of Peru, showcasing its rich traditions and people.
The Museum's Architecture
Building Exterior & Interior
Appreciate the stunning architecture of the MATE museum, a beautiful space that complements the art within.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission & Location
Artistic Vision & Photography
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission Alert!
Enjoy the MATE museum without an entry fee! Perfect for budget travelers exploring Lima's art scene. :moneywithwings:
📸 Capture the Moments
Photography is encouraged, so bring your camera or phone to snap shots of the incredible art and exhibits. :camerawithflash:
📍 Miraflores Location
Easily accessible in Miraflores, combine your museum visit with exploring the charming streets and cafes. :round_pushpin:
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush your visit; take your time to appreciate the depth and detail in Mario Testino's work. :stopwatch:
Lima is a perfectly fine city to visit - but suffers from the perception that it's a multi-day tourist spot
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission Alert!
Enjoy the MATE museum without an entry fee! Perfect for budget travelers exploring Lima's art scene. :moneywithwings:
📸 Capture the Moments
Photography is encouraged, so bring your camera or phone to snap shots of the incredible art and exhibits. :camerawithflash:
📍 Miraflores Location
Easily accessible in Miraflores, combine your museum visit with exploring the charming streets and cafes. :round_pushpin:
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush your visit; take your time to appreciate the depth and detail in Mario Testino's work. :stopwatch:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the MATE museum for its free admission and the opportunity to see the striking photography of Mario Testino. The museum's location in Miraflores is also a plus, allowing for easy exploration of the area. However, some visitors found the art to be less captivating than expected, with one reviewer suggesting the Larco Museum offered a more impressive collection.
"I didn't know until I entered that it was a very religious museum. It was worth it because the house is beautiful but I was not dazzled by the art. The Larco museum is much better"
Natalia Vargas
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Portugueses em Viagem
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The MATE - Mario Testino Museum is located in the Miraflores district of Lima. You can easily reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services like Uber or Cabify, or public buses that frequent the area. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with exploring other attractions in Miraflores.
The MATE - Mario Testino Museum is located in the Miraflores district of Lima, Peru. While Barranco is known for its bohemian art scene, MATE is a distinct cultural landmark in Miraflores.
Miraflores is quite walkable, and many attractions are close to each other. For longer distances or if you prefer not to walk, ride-sharing apps are readily available and affordable.
Yes, several bus routes pass through Miraflores that can get you close to the museum. Check local transit apps or ask your accommodation for the most convenient routes.
Street parking can be challenging in Miraflores. It's often easier to use a taxi or ride-sharing service, or to park in a secure public parking lot if you are driving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The MATE - Mario Testino Museum offers free admission! This makes it a fantastic and accessible cultural experience for all visitors to Lima.
The museum is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 6 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for any last-minute changes.
Since admission is free, you generally do not need to book tickets in advance. You can usually walk in during operating hours.
The museum is typically closed on Mondays. It is open on Tuesdays through Sundays.
MATE occasionally hosts special exhibitions and events. It's recommended to check their official website or social media channels for the latest information on what's on.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the MATE museum for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the artwork. Always look for signage or ask staff if unsure.
While personal photography is allowed, commercial photography or the use of tripods and selfie sticks might require special permission. Be mindful of other visitors and the artwork.
Many visitors enjoy photographing the vibrant portraits and fashion shots. The museum's architecture itself also provides excellent photo opportunities.
Absolutely! Sharing your experiences and photos from MATE on social media is encouraged. Tagging the museum can help others discover this gem.
While there isn't one official hashtag, using #MATEMuseumLima or #MarioTestinoLima can help connect your posts with others who have visited.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
MATE primarily showcases the extensive work of Peruvian fashion photographer Mario Testino, including his iconic portraits, fashion editorials, and personal projects that highlight Peruvian culture.
A typical visit to MATE can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in photography and how much time you spend admiring each piece.
While the museum's content is primarily photography, older children and teenagers interested in art and fashion might find it engaging. It's more geared towards adults and art enthusiasts.
Information on guided tours is not widely advertised, but it's worth inquiring at the museum's information desk upon arrival.
The MATE museum offers a sophisticated and visually stimulating experience, celebrating the vibrant and colorful aspects of Peruvian identity through the lens of a world-renowned photographer.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to gauge your children's interest in photography beforehand. If they are easily bored by static displays, you might want to keep the visit shorter or focus on specific, visually striking pieces. The museum's location in Miraflores also means you can easily transition to other family-friendly activities in the area, like enjoying the coastal views or finding a casual eatery.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Photography Buffs
Take your time to appreciate the technical skill, the bold compositions, and the emotional resonance in each photograph. Consider researching Testino's career before your visit to gain a richer understanding of the context and significance of the works on display. The free admission makes this a highly accessible way to experience world-class art.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the charming Miraflores district on foot, enjoying the ocean views from the Malecón, and perhaps opting for more affordable local eateries. The free entry to MATE means you can allocate more of your budget to experiencing Lima's renowned culinary scene or other paid attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision of Mario Testino
Testino's work is characterized by its energy, glamour, and ability to capture the personality of his subjects. At MATE, this translates into an immersive experience where visitors can trace his artistic evolution and appreciate his unique perspective on beauty, culture, and identity. The museum often features rotating exhibitions, ensuring that there is always something new to discover, even for repeat visitors. It’s a place where fashion, art, and Peruvian culture converge in a visually stunning manner.
Beyond the photographs themselves, the museum's setting in the elegant Miraflores district adds to the overall experience. The architecture of the building is often noted for its aesthetic appeal, providing a beautiful backdrop for Testino's powerful imagery. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in fashion photography, contemporary art, or the cultural landscape of Peru.
Exploring Miraflores: Beyond MATE
Miraflores is also a culinary hotspot, boasting some of Lima's finest dining establishments, from traditional Peruvian cuisine to international flavors. You can find everything from casual cevicherías to high-end gastronomic experiences. The district's lively atmosphere, combined with its beautiful green spaces and coastal setting, makes it an ideal base for exploring Lima and a perfect complement to a visit to the MATE museum.
For those interested in other cultural sites, Miraflores is relatively close to other attractions, and its well-developed infrastructure makes it easy to navigate. Whether you're looking for art, food, or relaxation, Miraflores provides a rich and engaging experience that enhances any trip to Lima.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit