Palacio de Bellas Artes

The permanent collection, displayed in the Palacio's soaring chambers, begins with the Spanish Colonial era and traces Chile's cultural development through the styles of its artistic masters. Temporary exhibitions come from around Chile and the world. The MAC (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo), Santiago's contemporary art museum, is also here. While this institution, operated by the University of Chile, may lack the gravitas of the neighboring Fine Arts Museum, exhibits can be a lot more fun. Guided city tours of Santiago may include a visit to the museum. The hop-on, hop-off buses, known as Turistik, also include a stop at Bellas Artes. Guided tours of the museum can be arranged in advance for groups of at least five people.