Ayala Museum is a premier museum in Makati City, Philippines that showcases the rich and diverse history, art, and culture of the country. It was established in 1967 as a project of the Ayala Foundation, Inc., a non-profit organization that promotes education, arts and culture, and community development.
The museum is located at the heart of Makati’s Central Business District, along Makati Avenue corner De La Rosa Street. Its modern building stands out with its minimalist design and floor-to-ceiling glass walls, which provide a stunning view of the cityscape. The museum’s seven galleries are spread across four floors, each housing a different collection that chronicles the country’s history from pre-colonial times to the present day.
The first floor is dedicated to the “Gold of Ancestors” exhibit, which features a collection of pre-colonial gold artifacts from the Philippines. The exhibit showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of the country’s early inhabitants, who created intricate gold jewelry, ornaments, and ritual objects. The exhibit also highlights the significance of gold in Philippine culture and its role in trade and diplomacy during the pre-colonial era.
On the second floor, visitors can explore the “Diorama Experience,” a series of dioramas that depict significant events in Philippine history. The dioramas are accompanied by an audio-visual presentation that provides context and background information about each scene. The exhibit covers major events such as the Battle of Mactan, the Spanish colonization, the Philippine Revolution, and World War II.
The third floor houses the “The Philippine Contemporary Art” exhibit, which features the works of contemporary Filipino artists. The exhibit showcases various forms of art, including painting, sculpture, installation art, and multimedia art. It provides a glimpse into the vibrant and dynamic contemporary art scene in the Philippines.
The fourth floor is home to the “Design Philippines” exhibit, which showcases Filipino design excellence. The exhibit features various products and designs that highlight the creativity and ingenuity of Filipino designers, from fashion and furniture to architecture and graphic design. It also explores the intersection of traditional and modern design in the Philippines.
Apart from its permanent exhibits, Ayala Museum also hosts temporary exhibits and events throughout the year. These exhibits range from contemporary art to historical artifacts and are curated to provide a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.
The museum also has a museum shop, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and merchandise related to the exhibits. The shop features a variety of products, including books, postcards, jewelry, and handicrafts, all made by Filipino artisans..
Ayala museum entrance fee
The entrance fees for Ayala Museum were as follows:
Regular Adult: PHP 375
Senior Citizens and PWD: PHP 300
Students with a valid ID: PHP 225
Children below the age of 4: Free
Please note that these fees may be subject to change and it is best to check the official website or contact Ayala Museum directly for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, the museum may offer discounted rates for group tours or special promotions during certain periods.
Ayala museum shop
Ayala Museum Shop offers a range of merchandise inspired by the exhibits and collections of the museum. Visitors can purchase souvenirs, books, and other items that showcase Philippine art, history, and culture.
Some of the products available at the museum shop include:
Books on Philippine art, history, and culture
Postcards featuring artwork from the museum’s collections
Jewelry inspired by traditional Filipino designs and materials
Handicrafts made by Filipino artisans
T-shirts and other apparel with Philippine-inspired designs
Home decor items, including vases, figurines, and wall art
Stationery and office supplies, including notebooks, pens, and desk accessories
The museum shop is located on the ground floor of the Ayala Museum building and is open during regular museum hours. It is a great place to find unique souvenirs or gifts for friends and family. Visitors can also shop online through the museum’s official website.