Museo del Patrimonio Municipal, Málaga

Museum in Málaga

Old Municipal Museum Malga
Old Municipal Museum Malga
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Miwipedia

The Museo del Patrimonio Municipal, better known as MUPAM, is all about Malaga's story told through its own art and objects, making it one of the must-see places in Malaga if you want to understand the city beyond its beaches. Housed in a modern, glass-fronted building that once served as a Guardia Civil headquarters, this five-floor museum feels clean and contemporary, but the works inside sweep you back through centuries of local history.

With a carefully chosen permanent collection and excellent temporary exhibitions, MUPAM takes you from medieval Malaga through its 19th-century art scene and into contemporary trends, all with a strong local focus. Paintings, sculptures, and graphic works - including pieces by Picasso and Carlos Haes - turn this into a place that is often visited on walking tours of Malaga by travellers looking for a quieter but deeply rewarding cultural stop near the seafront and Malaga Park.

History and Significance of the Museo del Patrimonio Municipal

The Museo del Patrimonio Municipal exists to preserve and showcase Malaga's municipal heritage, bringing together works that were once scattered in official buildings, storerooms, and institutional collections. With a catalogue of over 4,000 pieces, only a fraction is displayed at any one time, but the 94 works chosen for permanent exhibition offer a clear, carefully curated narrative of the city's evolution. It is both an art museum and a historical mirror, reflecting Malaga's shifting identity over the centuries.

The roots of the collection lie in artworks and objects acquired or commissioned by the City Council over time - portraits of local figures, city views, religious scenes, and modern works tied to municipal initiatives such as scholarships and prizes. This gives MUPAM a very particular flavour: rather than chasing international blockbusters, it focuses on how Malaga has seen itself and been represented by its own artists.

The building itself has its own story. Designed by architect Federico Orellana Ortega and opened in March 1999, it was later designated as the Municipal Heritage Museum in 2007. A second three-floor module, opened in 2003 and designed by Miguel Rodríguez González and Pau Soler Serratosa, expanded the space for temporary shows. Together, the two wings signal a modern, transparent approach to heritage - literally, with glass façades that open the collection up to the city outside.

Things to See and Do in the Museo del Patrimonio Municipal

One of the pleasures of visiting MUPAM is the clear structure of the permanent exhibition, laid out in three themed rooms that guide you through Malaga's artistic and historical journey. Room I covers the period from the 15th to the 18th centuries, when Malaga moved from being a predominantly Arabic city into part of the kingdoms of Aragon and Castile. Here you will find works that reflect religious change, new power structures, and even baroque celebrations, giving a sense of how the city reinvented itself after the Christian conquest.

Room II is devoted to the 19th century and recreates the atmosphere of the City Council’s first municipal museum. This section dives into the “Masters of the 19th century” and the early context that would eventually shape Picasso’s world, with special attention to artists like Carlos Haes, who appears in a “Masterpiece” section. The room feels like stepping into the era when Malaga was redefining itself as a modern, outward-looking city.

Room III brings you into the 20th century and beyond, focusing on artists connected to the City Council through scholarships, collaborations, or local initiatives. It highlights the “Generation of the 50s,” who helped usher Malaga’s art into the modern era, and a “Contemporary Trends” area that showcases living artists. A lovely surprise here is a selection of pottery hand-painted by Picasso, bridging the gap between globally famous names and their local roots. Temporary exhibitions in the newer wing add an extra layer, often exploring specific themes or aspects of Malaga’s social and cultural life.

How to Get to the Museo del Patrimonio Municipal

MUPAM is located near the eastern end of Malaga's central park (Paseo del Parque), within easy walking distance of the historic centre, the port, and the seafront. Most visitors arrive in the city via Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, which is well connected to the rest of Spain and Europe and sits only a short ride away by train, bus, taxi, or rideshare. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Málaga on Booking.com.

From within Malaga, the museum is easily reached on foot from the old town, the marina area (Muelle Uno), or the Soho district. There is no train directly to the museum, but long-distance and cercanías trains arrive at María Zambrano station, from where you can continue by local bus or a pleasant 20-25 minute walk through the centre and along the park.Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. Several city bus routes also stop nearby on Paseo del Parque, making it simple to hop off and stroll straight to the glass-fronted building.

If you are travelling by car, follow signs into central Malaga and look for public car parks near the port, Alameda Principal, or along the axis of the historic centre; from there it is just a short walk to the museum’s entrance across or along the park.If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. Given the one-way system and pedestrian areas, many visitors find it easier to park once and then explore MUPAM and nearby sights on foot.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Museo del Patrimonio Municipal

  • Suggested tips: Start in Room I and follow the chronological route; it makes the narrative of Malaga’s history much clearer and helps you appreciate later works in context.
  • Best time to visit: Late morning or mid-afternoon tends to be calm, with fewer groups and a quieter atmosphere ideal for lingering with the artworks.
  • Entrance fee: Free for EU citizens, 1.50 euro for others
  • Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am. to 2 pm. and from 5 pm. to 8 pm. Summer (from June 1): Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am. to 2 pm. and 6 pm. to 9 pm. On Mondays is closed.
  • Official website: https://museodelpatrimoniomunicipal.malaga.eu/
  • How long to spend: Allow 60-90 minutes for the permanent collection, more if you want to explore the temporary exhibitions thoroughly.
  • Accessibility: The modern building has lifts and wide corridors, making it generally accessible for visitors with reduced mobility, though it is always wise to check details if you have specific needs.
  • Facilities: Expect a reception area, cloakroom, and basic services; cafés and restaurants are just across the park or in the nearby old town.
  • Photography tip: If photography is allowed, take advantage of the natural light in some galleries and the museum’s glass façades for interesting reflections of the park and city outside.
  • Guided tours: Look out for any guided visits, educational activities, or themed tours, which can add depth to particular periods or artists in the collection.
  • Nearby food options: After your visit, cross into the historic centre or head toward Muelle Uno for tapas, seafood, or coffee with harbour or park views.

Where to Stay close to the Museo del Patrimonio Municipal

Staying near MUPAM puts you in a sweet spot between Malaga’s historic centre and its waterfront, ideal if you want easy access to both culture and seaside strolls. A popular central option is AC Hotel Málaga Palacio, which sits just opposite the park and offers great views over the cathedral, port, and museum area from its rooftop. For boutique charm closer to the old town’s lanes and main museums, Room Mate Valeria combines colourful design with a handy location between the port and the centre. Another appealing choice is Molina Lario Hotel, a stylish hotel a short walk from the cathedral and the park, making MUPAM an easy stop on your daily wanderings.

Is the Museo del Patrimonio Municipal Worth Visiting?

The Museo del Patrimonio Municipal is definitely worth visiting, especially if you want to get under the skin of Malaga rather than just ticking off its most famous sights. It offers a clear, well-structured overview of how the city has changed over the centuries, told through works it has commissioned or collected itself. From early religious pieces and 19th-century masters to 20th-century experimentation and contemporary trends - plus the added bonus of Picasso pieces - MUPAM feels both manageable in size and rich in content, making it one of the top attractions in Malaga for culture lovers.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (7,746)

Malaga Museum sits in the grand Palacio de la Aduana on Plaza de la Aduana and houses archaeology and fine art collections that together trace Málaga’s past; visitors praise the elegant marble staircases, sunlit interior patio and balcony, accessible layout with elevators and lockers (locks often require a refundable coin), and quiet café and dining options within the building, making it easy to spend a few hours exploring at your own pace.

Agnieska Banaite
a month ago
"I wandered into the Museo de Málaga when I saw on Google Maps that it was one of the least busy places in recent days — probably thanks to the rain.Drawn by the grandeur of the Palacio de la Aduana and its calm presence near the port, I decided to explore. The entry was free — a quiet gift for being part of the European Union — and that somehow made the experience feel even more generous. Inside, the marble staircases and high courtyards felt like a cathedral of time. I took photos of both the exterior and the exhibitions — fragments of history frozen in light. Ancient sculptures, faded mosaics, and romantic 19th-century paintings coexisted under one elegant roof, telling stories of empires, rituals, and emotions that once pulsed through Málaga. I loved how the building itself became part of the exhibition — layers of sea air, trade, and government now turned into art and memory. It felt like walking through transformation, the very essence of rebirth: from customs palace to museum, from commerce to culture. Before entering, you hang your umbrella in a special holder with a lock and key, and then leave your bag in a locker — you’ll need a one-euro coin, so bring one with you. Free to enter for EU citizenship, other may be a small fee, yet rich in meaning — a space worth visiting not just for what you see, but for how it quietly rearranges something inside you. ✨ Phoenix Perpetuale — review from Málagan📚 Goodreads: Phoenix Perpetuale..."
Catrinel Fratean
3 weeks ago
"Unique building with beautiful architecture and views. It has the sun exposure. It has a Michelin star restaurant in the same building and abeautiful cafeteria cozy quiet place from the noise of the city. The interior patio is a tranquil place to meditate and reflect and admire the beautiful architecture and the light of the sun playing with the shadows..."
Ja at Khan
2 months ago
"The museum has an archaeology section and an art section, both which take you through Malaga’s history and art scene across the centuries. Thecourtyard is stu ing and is so beautiful you can definitely spend some time there relaxing and taking it all in. The entrance fee for UK citizens was €1.50 which was very affordable. Larger items such as backpacks do need to be stored in the storage lockers which need €1 (returnable) which uses a key system...."

FAQs for Visiting Museo del Patrimonio Municipal

The museum stands near the eastern end of Paseo del Parque, close to the seafront and within easy walking distance of the historic centre and port area.
Usually you can simply walk in without a reservation, but for special exhibitions or peak periods it is wise to check current advice.
Yes, the clear layout and varied artworks can be engaging for older children, especially if you turn the visit into a visual “time travel” through Malaga’s history.
Many displays include information in Spanish with at least some English translations; check at reception for leaflets, guides, or audio options.

Nearby Attractions to the Museo del Patrimonio Municipal

  • Malaga Park (Paseo del Parque): A long, palm-shaded park filled with statues and subtropical plants, perfect for a stroll before or after your museum visit.
  • Malaga Cathedral: The city's impressive Renaissance-Baroque cathedral, known as “La Manquita,” just a short walk away in the historic centre.
  • Alcazaba of Malaga: A Moorish palace-fortress with gardens, courtyards, and panoramic views, rising above the Roman Theatre nearby.
  • Muelle Uno and the Port of Malaga: A modern waterfront promenade with shops, restaurants, and sea views, easily reached on foot from the museum.
  • Picasso Museum Malaga: Housed in the Palacio de Buenavista in the old town, this major museum showcases an extensive collection of Pablo Picasso's works.

The Museo del Patrimonio Municipal appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Málaga!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am. to 2 pm. and from 5 pm. to 8 pm. Summer (from June 1): Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am. to 2 pm. and 6 pm. to 9 pm. On Mondays is closed.

Price:

Free for EU citizens, 1.50 euro for others

Address: Museo del Patrimonio Municipal Paseo Reding, 1 29016 Málaga Spain
Málaga: 1 km
Telephone: +34 951928710
Official Website

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