Museums in Old San Juan (San Juan)

Ballajá Barracks

Refurbished in 1992, in time for the celebration of Columbus' discovery of the Americas in 1492, the Cuartel de Ballajá was once a military barracks. Today, it houses the Museum of the Americas where crafts and other exhibits detail the cultures of the Americas. Exquisite colonial architecture provides a handsome backdrop for the cultural events often celebrated in the building's central patio. Admission is free.

Museo Pablo Casals

Located on Calle de San Sebastián, this small museum is devoted to the life and music of the loved and famous Catalan cellist, Pablo Casals. Although not Puerto Rican by birth, he was loved dearly by the locals. Casals is known for his lifetime friendship with the late Puerto Rican governor, Luis Muñoz Marín. His life is now remembered in the yearly 'Festival Casals'. Casals' memorabilia, CDs, tapes and videos are available in the gift shop.

Casa del Libro

Love to read? Located on Calle Cristo, check out this tiny museum which offers exhibitions related to books and printing. The museum has a collection of vintage books from the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries. Take in the history of book printing on the island and take note of the very curious and primitive printing tools discovered by local historians.

Museo de Arte e Historia

Come admire current works by the Puerto Rican contemporary art community here. Browse the historic exhibition area where you'll view old photographs and artifacts. The Museum showcases works of the top-rated local artists that are available to the viewing public during exhibitions throughout the year. Call ahead for information on current showings, as the museum constantly changes its venue. Admission is free.

Butterfly Art Gallery

You may never see butterflies so beautifully displayed as you will see them in this eclectic gallery. Here they specialize in exquisite creations that capture butterflies in a kaleidoscope of colors. And they do it so well that the lovely creatures seem to be still on the wing, frozen in a freeze frame. Every bit as intriguing is the restored mansion in which the butterfly gallery and the eclectic display of other gift items are displayed. Check out the cafe which offers international fare.

Atlas Art

Located on Calle Cristo, this well-established gallery is one of the most recognized art houses in the Old City, with a huge selection of exquisite work ranging from period painting to modern pieces. Both local and international artists are represented here. The tremendous amount of variety is the real drawing card at Atlas Art.

Museo de Nuestra Raíz Africana

African heritage has played a strong role in influencing Puerto Rican culture. This adobe-styled museum chronicles the history of Africans in Puerto Rico from the early days of slavery to modern day. Here you will find African art, literature, sounds, and pictures. Browse through nine exhibition rooms. Admission is free.

Casa Rosada (Pink House)

Built in 1812 as barracks for the troops assigned to guard the San Agustin Bastion, this building was later converted to an officers' quarters in 1851 by the Spanish Army. The building was then remodeled to serve as a museum for Puerto Rican crafts.

Casa de Ramón Power y Giralt

This is the house of the first Puerto Rican representative in the Spanish Cortes (courts); Senor Ramón Power y Giralt. Centuries ago, he entered the cortes and was instrumental in obtaining several important rights for the inhabitants of Puerto Rico. The place now houses the Puerto Rico Conservation Trust where you can view a video documentary and several exhibits related to Power y Giralt. Admission is free.

Pamil Fine Arts

Pamil has a collection of paintings in several different mediums. The staff will gladly guide you through the selections. This gallery typically showcases a good mix of local and international artists through exhibits and special showings. The artists' creations here are usually shown to the general public so as to further expose their talents to the masses.

Museo del Indio

History buffs will find this venue fascinating. It's a museum that displays archaeological relics from the 13th to the 15th century. The artifacts have all been uncovered in excavations and digs throughout the island. The objects on display date back to the Taíno Indians, which were the first inhabitants of the island. There are special exhibitions presented throughout the year as well.Admission is free.

Gallery Nights

From February through May and from September through December, on the first Tuesday of the month, the old city's streets welcome lovers of fine art. During this time, San Juan's Museum of Art and History (located at 150 Calle Norzagaray ) and eighteen other art galleries and exhibit halls open their doors to display the best works of Puerto Rican artists. If you are in San Juan during these months, be sure to include this venue on your 'must see' list.