While culture is on hiatus, it is time to have a look at the most stunning museums so that you would be prepared to visit them at their opening.
These four breathtaking museums should be visited once in a lifetime, if not more.
From Mexico to Italy, passing by Columbia or Brazil, let’s go around the world in a few minutes.
1. The Niteroi Contemporary Art Museum – Brazil
Credit: Instagram @macniteroi
No, it is not a flying saucer. Overlooking the sea and offering a panoramic view of Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro and Sugarloaf Mountain, the museum is one of its kind. Its modern structure, designed by Oscar Niemeyer, makes it look like a UFO (Unidentified Flying Object), which could have just landed on a rugged cliffside.
But what does this mysterious shape is internally exhibiting? You tell us. Exhibitions are temporary, so their content will depend on when you visit them.
Credit: Instagram @macniteroi
Notes: You can access the museum by ferry, and then you have around 15 minutes walk to access the inside of the museum.
2. Gold Museum – Bogota, Columbia
Have you ever heard of the El Dorado Legend? It is said that, in the 16th century, a South American city was entirely made of gold. Explorers and conquerors believed the myth and travelled considerable distances to find valuable treasures. They attacked cities to possess wealth and stole gold but never found the El Dorado.
The museum, also called El Museo del Oro, contains about 34 000 gold pieces, making it the world’s most extensive gold collection. Having the opportunity to learn about Colombian history surrounded by valuable artefacts on two floors and being that close to ancient luxury objects may feel surrealist, but… You can see it with your own eyes!
Credit: Instagram @museodeloro
Notes: You can visit and explore the museum thanks to an audio tour in which savouring and remarkable stories will be told in English or Spanish.
3.The largest underwater museum in the world – Cancun, Mexico
Credit: Instagram @jasondecairestaylor
Will you spend your holidays in Mexico or near Yucatan? Meet you in the deep sea to explore the 500 human-sized sculptures realised by the British artist Jason Caires Taylor. This is a unique experience to see the MUSA, Museo Subacuatico de Arte, bringing art to the service of the environment.
As frozen in time, you will see a crowd of women, men and kids, immobilised in their actions and covered by all forms of life: algae, fish, coral, sand… As if nature took back its rights.
Don’t forget to wear a mask and snorkel or you’ll miss all the fun.
Credit: Instagram @jasondecairestaylor
Notes: You must be aged over 13 and not having a particular cardiac problem for this kind of expedition. However, it is not an issue if you never dive before; local instructors will show you how to.
4. Museum on the enchanting mountain – Messner Museum, Italy
Credit: Instagram @zahahadidarchitects
The Messner Mountain Museum, located on the summit of Kronplatz at 2,275 metres, is for alpinist lovers. At the centre of South Tyrol’s ski resort, the spectacular architecture of the museum designed by Zaha Hadid is expanding your vision to the alpine peaks of Zillertal, Ortler and Dolomites. There is no need to wear your walking shoes; they won’t be worn out as the museum can be accessed through mountain railways.
The museum’s design is astonishing, and the panoramic view is refreshing. No matter the season you visit it, you’ll admire its vast landscape anytime.
Credit: Instagram @zahahadidarchitects
Notes: It is recommended to plan your journey in advance and make sure the weather is favourable.
You are now ready to explore the four corners of the globe. Hoping you’ll fill your to-do list with at least one of them.