Malaga Museum occupies the neoclassical Palacio de la Aduana at Plaza de la Aduana in Málaga’s historic centre, near the Alcazaba and Roman Theatre. Its archaeology and fine arts collections bring together more than 2,500 years of Mediterranean history, from prehistoric finds and Phoenician objects to Roman mosaics, Islamic ceramics and Spanish paintings. Look for works by Picasso, then explore the visible storage displays, where many objects are shown together. The restored customs house is part of the visit, not just a setting for the collections.
Two collections in the Palacio de la Aduana
Malaga Museum brings together the city’s fine arts collection and its Provincial Archaeological Museum in the Palacio de la Aduana, the former customs house. The neoclassical building was constructed on reclaimed land and completed in the 19th century. Its restored rooms now hold collections spanning archaeology and art.
The museum opened in this building in 2016. Its location in the historic centre puts it close to the Alcazaba, the Roman Theatre and Málaga Cathedral, making it easy to combine a museum visit with nearby landmarks.
From ancient finds to paintings
The archaeology collection follows the region’s past through objects from prehistoric times, Phoenician settlement, the Roman period and Islamic Málaga. Roman mosaics, ancient sculptures and Islamic ceramics give the displays a material connection to the people and cultures that shaped the area.
The fine arts collection includes Spanish paintings, with works from the 19th and 20th centuries and paintings by Picasso. The two collections give the visit a wide chronological range, from archaeological evidence of the distant past to more recent art.
How to explore the displays
Set aside time for both sections rather than choosing only one. The museum uses modern exhibition design to tell the story of its collections, and large visible storage areas display many objects together. Temporary exhibitions add another reason to check what is on before you go.
The museum is at Plaza de la Aduana in the centre of Málaga. A one-euro coin is useful for the lockers. Entry is free for EU citizens; check the museum’s website for current access information and details before visiting.
Preguntas frecuentes
What can you see at Malaga Museum?
The museum combines fine arts and archaeology. Its collections include prehistoric and Phoenician finds, Roman mosaics, Islamic ceramics, sculptures and Spanish paintings, including works by Picasso.
How long do you need at Malaga Museum?
Allow around 2 to 3 hours to explore both the archaeology and fine arts sections.
Is entry to Malaga Museum free?
Entry is free for EU citizens. Check the museum’s website for current entry details.
Where is Malaga Museum?
It is in the Palacio de la Aduana at Plaza de la Aduana in Málaga’s historic centre, near the Alcazaba and Roman Theatre.
