Museum of Contemporary Art Eduardo Westerdahl (Macew)

MACEW, the Museum of Contemporary Art Eduardo Westerdahl, occupies four rooms in the historic Casa de la Aduana in Puerto de la Cruz. Its collection focuses on 20th-century art, including abstract and surrealist work from the 1950s and 1960s, with pieces by Canarian, Spanish and international artists. Paintings and sculptures make this a worthwhile stop if you want a compact introduction to modern art on the island. Take time to notice the building’s architecture and red pine doors, and ask the staff about individual works.

Art in the Casa de la Aduana

The Museum of Contemporary Art Eduardo Westerdahl, known as MACEW, is housed in Casa de la Aduana, identified as the oldest preserved building in Puerto de la Cruz. The historic setting gives the gallery a close connection to the town’s past, while its rooms are devoted to 20th-century art.

The collection includes work by Canarian, Spanish and international artists. Abstract and surrealist art from the 1950s and 1960s is a particular focus. Across four rooms, paintings sit alongside sculptures, offering a concise visit rather than a large museum circuit.

Eduardo Westerdahl and the collection

Art critic Eduardo Westerdahl founded the museum in Tenerife in 1953, motivated by his interest in art and literature. Its collection includes works associated with the European avant-garde, as well as pieces by artists from the Canary Islands. The museum is managed by the Instituto de Estudios Hispánicos de Canarias.

Staff can explain individual artworks and the history of the collection. The museum has also hosted readings, meetings with artists and workshops. Look beyond the artworks to the building itself, particularly its red pine doors.