Metropolitan Museum of Manila - Philippines

If you are going on a vacation in the Philippines, gaining insights into its art and culture would defi8nitely be a plus factor. The Metropolitan Museum of Manila, or Met Museum, is considered as one of the biggest repositories of fine art in the country.

The Metropolitan Museum of Manila was inaugurated in 1976 and originally displayed only works of art by foreigners. Among the various foreign works that have been exhibited at the museum included the paintings of Picasso and Groupis. However by the mid 1980s, works by Filipino artists also begun to be shown.

Once inside the Metropolitan Museum of Manila, you will get to see various types of artwork. At the Goldwork section are some of the finest selections of gold ornaments and other jewelry that were used by the early Filipinos prior to the arrival of the Spaniards. Other objects that you will find in this area are pottery, religious artifacts and certain paraphernalia used for burial customs.

At the BSP Collection Basement Hallway are numerous religious works. There are also specific areas devoted to showcasing the art pieces of certain artists like Felix Hidalgo. Also on display are several abstract paintings, as well as some of the most prestigious works by people who have been bestowed the title of National Artist.

Apart from displaying these timeless works of art, the Metropolitan Museum of Manila is also involved in raising awareness of culture in general among the people. The institution has several programs and workshops that aim to bring art to the people, encouraging them not just to appreciate the subject, but also get into it themselves. The museum, together with its affiliates, are also involved in other socio-civic activities, such as increasing ones awareness and responsibilities towards man, environment and country.

To reach the Metropolitan Museum of Manila, you can take a jeepney going towards Mabini Street, and drop by the Saint Vito Cruz Street. There you will see the office of the Central Bank, where you will eventually come across the museum. If you are coming from TM Kalaw, go to Maria Orosa St and then go to Roxas Boulevard. The

admission fee is 80 Php per person (about $2).

A countrys art and culture can go a long way towards helping one develop a deeper appreciation for its people, and the Metropolitan Museum of Manila, with its vast and impressive galleries, certainly does justice to Philippine artists and of course its citizens.