Gateway El Salvador
Sights/San Salvador
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Museums
(National Exhibition Hall)
(Museum of Popular Art)
David J. Guzman
(National Museum of Anthropology)
(Museum of Modern Art)
(Mility History Museum)
(The Museum of Word & Image)
Monuments/Theaters/Churches
(National Palace)
(National Theater)
(Monument to Memory & Truth)
(Church of the Rosary)
Gardens-
(Botanical Gardens)
(Natural History Museum)
For the Young at Heart-
(National Zoo)
(Childrens Museum)
(Museum of Science)
El Boqueron
Parque Balboa/Puerta Del Diablo
(Devil's Door)
Panchimalco
Aside from great restaurants and shopping malls, San Salvador is proud of its many monuments, museums, and parks. You could easily spend a week, but if you are limited to only a few days then definitely visit the Museo Nacional Antropologia, Museo de Arte Popular, and the Museo de Arte de El Salvador.
San Salvador on first impression seems confusing with traffic jams, blaring horns, and a maze of winding roads. Add that with 2.2 million people over 232 square miles, and it can appear daunting. But surprisingly enough, the traffic keeps moving, taxis are efficient, and people are friendly. Taxis are a great way to get around, just make sure you negotiate your price first. Fares range from $3-5 around town. Your hotel will be happy to arrange transportation with a reputable cab company that can take you around for the day.
Sala Nacional de Exposiciones
Hours: T-Sun. 9-12 & 2-5pm (Closed Monday) Admission: free
Tel: 2222-4959
At the north end of Parque Cuscatlan
off Alameda Roosevelt
The National Exhibition Hall is next to the Monument to Memory & Truth. The exhibitions change often and is a favorite amongst Salvadorans.
Museo de la Palabra y Imagen-
Av. Norte 1140, San Salvador
Hrs: M-F 8-12 & 2-5pm 8-12 Sat.
Admission: $2 Tel: 2275-4870
A unique collection of written history reflecting the revolutionary period during the 70's and 80's is housed in the museum. There is also an excellent exhibit of black and white photography capturing life during the war. Director, Carlos Henriquez Conslavi was the founder and voice of Radio Venceremos throughout the years of conflict.
Museo Nacional de Antropologia
Av. La Revolucion, San Salvador
Hrs: T-Sun 9-5pm
Admission: $1.50 Tel: 2243-3927
This impressive museum showcases the history of the Mayan culture, as well as the development of cultural, religious, and econonic progress in El Salvador. A good stop before heading to the ruins. With two floors, you can easily spend several hours here.
Museo de Arte de El Salvador-Colonia San Benito/Final Ave. La Revolucion/San Salvador
Hours: T-Sun. 10-6pm (closed Monday) Admission: $1.50 Tel: 2243-6099
The museum houses an excellent collection of Latin American artists as well as art from around the world. The museum is only four years old and sits behind the massive mosaic monument, "Monumento a la Revolucion." Cafe Punto offers a fine upscale menu. Hours: M-Sat. 12-11pm For reservations, call: 2211-4628
See website: for more information on current exhibitions and events Museum of Modern Art
Museo de Arte Popular-Av. San Jose 125, San Salvador
Hours: T-Fri. 10-5pm & Sat. 10-6pm Admission: $1 Tel: 2274-5154
The Popular Museum is a collection of folk art. The highlight of the museum is Dominga Herrera's popular, "Sorpresas." Tiny ceramic dome shapes that hid a surprise inside. Usually a typcial scene of daily life or a festival. Herrera's work spawned a cottage industry in the town of Ilobasco where almost every family creates these little miracles in clay.
Museo de la Historia Militar-Cuartel el Zapote, Barrio San Jacinto, San Salvador
Hours: T-Sun. 9-12 & 2-5pm (closed Monday) Admission: free Tel: 2250-0000
El Salvador's focus is on the future, but it is important to remember the past conflicts if only as a reminder of what should never happen again. The Military Museum traces the country's history from 1932 to the 1992 Peace Accords. There is also a new relief map measuring 112 x 62 feet.
