Guide to National Museum of Fine Arts in Manila

Art has an amazing way of taking us on a journey—stirring emotions, linking us to the past, and giving us a glimpse into the culture and experiences of those who came before us. If you enjoy museums like I do, the National Museum of Fine Arts in Manila is a must-see when you’re in Metro Manila. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been there, but each visit feels like reconnecting with the heart of the Philippines’ artistic story.

A Glimpse of Artistic Grandeur

The National Museum of Fine Arts houses an unparalleled collection – showcasing the most important paintings, photographs, prints, drawings, sculptures, and memorabilia in the history of the Philippines.

With 29 galleries and hallway exhibitions to explore, the National Museum of Fine Arts offers an incredible journey through the best of Filipino art. Here, you’ll find works by 19th-century masters, celebrated National Artists, and some of the country’s leading modern painters, sculptors, and printmakers. But if there’s one piece that steals the show, it’s Juan Luna’s Spoliarium. This iconic painting isn’t just famous; it’s legendary. It was awarded a gold medal at the Exposición Nacional de Bellas Artes in Madrid back in 1884.

A Journey Through Time

The National Museum of Fine Arts isn’t just a place to admire incredible artwork—it’s a piece of the Philippines’ history itself. Fun fact: the building that stands today used to be the Old Legislative Building, where key legislative decisions were made that helped shape the country. Built between 1918 and 1926, it’s also a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture.

During World War II, in February 1945, the Japanese forces transformed the building into their stronghold, leaving indelible marks and defensive installations. However, the spirit of the building endured, and it was rebuilt in 1949, retaining its original footprint and four-story height.

A National Historical Landmark

On September 30, 2010, the National Museum of Fine Arts was officially declared a National Historical Landmark under Republic Act 10096. This recognition by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines highlights the museum’s role in preserving the country’s rich heritage and its lasting importance to the nation’s story.

National Museum of Fine Arts Galleries

- 2nd Floor -

Spoliarium Hall

Gallery I - Luis I Ablaza Hall

Religious Art from the 17th to 19th Centuries

Gallery II - Friends for Cultural Concerns of the Philippines, Inc. Hall

Via Crucis of an Unknown Bohol Master

Gallery III - Ramon and Milagros Del Rosario Family Hall

Gallery of Paintings of the Philippine Colonial Tradition of Sacred Art

Gallery IV - Fundación Santiago Hall

Gallery of Paintings of the Philippine Colonial Tradition of Portraiture

Gallery V - Dr. Jose Rizal Hall

Inspiring the Nation | Dr. José Rizal: The National Hero in Art

Gallery VI - Far East Bank and Trust Company – Andrés and Grace Luna de San Pedro Memorial Hall

Gallery of Paintings of Los dos Pintores Juan Luna and Felix R. Hidalgo

Gallery VII - Special Exhibition Hall

Larawan at Litrato: Foto-óleo and Picture Portraits in the Philippines (1891-1953)

Gallery VIII - Silvina and Juan C. Laya Hall

Gallery IX - Early 20th Century Philippine Portrait Hall

Gallery X - Museum Foundation of the Philippines (MFP) Hall

Gallery XI - Society for the Preservation of Philippine Culture (SPPC) Hall

Gallery XII - Security Bank Hall

- 3rd Floor -

Gallery XIII - Vicente and Carmen Fabella Hall

Gallery XIV - Pillars of Philippine Modernism

Gallery XV - E. Aguilar Cruz Hall

Gallery XVI - Philippine General Hospital Hall

Gallery XVII - Special Exhibition Hall | Dedicated to Women’s Art

Closed during our visit

Gallery XVIII - Pillars of Philippine Modernism

Gallery XIX - Pillars of Philippine Modernism

Gallery XX - Placuna placenta: Capis Shells and Windows to Indigenous Artistry

Gallery XXI - Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) North Hall

Gallery XXII - International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) Hall

Gallery XXIII - Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Northwest Hall

Gallery XXIV - Philam Life Hall

- 4th Floor -

Gallery XXV and XXVI - The Longest Journey

Closed during our visit

Gallery XXVII and XXVIII - Special Exhibition Hall

Gallery XXIX - Philippine Modern Sculpture Hall

Old Senate Session Hall

National Museum of Fine Arts FAQs

Who can visit the museum?

The museum is open for everyone.

What are the operating hours?

The National Museum of Fine Arts is open from Tuesdays to Sundays (except religious holidays) from 9AM to 6PM. Arrive at least 30 minutes before closing time.

How much is the entrance fee?

Admission is FREE!

How to book a visit?

Walk-in visitors are welcome. If you’re 20 pax and more, they’ll require you to book in advance online.

Where to reserve slots for big groups?

You can make reservation here at least five (5) days prior to the day of the planned visit. – http://reservations.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/
You can also send booking request via email to reservation@nationalmuseum.gov.ph.
Follow up your booking request on (02) 8298-1100 local 3000

Please observe proper museum behavior. Kindly take note of the following policies:

Baggage Deposit — Baggage counters are available upon entry. Prohibited items must be deposited at the counters.

Prohibited Items — The following items are NOT permitted inside the museum buildings:
- Big bags, luggage and other bulky items larger than 33 x 43 cm (13 x 17 in)
- Backpacks (except for baby backpack carrier should be carried in front)
- Food and beverage
- Tumbler, bottled water
- Hats and caps
- Umbrella
- Video camera
- Selfie stick, and tripod
- Headphones and headsets
- Art materials and toys
- Shades and dark sunglasses
- Plant, flower or organic material
- Wrapped package, gift package
- Pets

Dress Code — Kindly dress appropriately. Extremely revealing clothes are prohibited.
Photography — Taking pictures is allowed inside the museum premises. However, the use of camera flash is strictly prohibited. Commercial/Professional photography, photo shoot and media coverage should secure necessary permits.
Videography — Personal videography is limited to specific areas and galleries. Commercial/Professional videography, live streaming, vlogging, video shoot, and media coverage should secure necessary permits.
Decorum
- Strictly no touching of exhibits (paintings, sculptures, and other objects in display)
- Please keep your voices low while inside the galleries. No shouting allowed
- Do not lean on glass showcases and pedestals, and do not step on the platforms.
- DO NOT PLACE ANY ITEMS such as cellphones, cameras, and bags on the exhibits and pedestals.
- Running, dancing, and playing inside the museum are not allowed.
- Sitting and lying on floors are not allowed.
- Staircase should be free from obstruction. Staying and sitting along the staircase is prohibited.

National Museum of Fine Arts Contact Information

National Museum of Fine Arts

Opens Tuesday – Sunday 9AM to 6PM

Address: Padre Burgos Ave, Ermita, Manila, Metro Manila

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nationalmuseumofthephilippines/

Website: https://www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/our-museums/national-museum-of-fine-arts/

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