Museo de Arte Precolombino | Quito

The Museo de Arte Precolombino Casa del Alabado is one of Quito’s most important cultural institutions, offering a unique perspective on Ecuador’s pre-Columbian civilizations. Located in the city’s historic center, the museum is housed in a beautifully preserved 17th-century colonial building, creating a harmonious blend of indigenous heritage and colonial history. It is one of the few museums in the world dedicated exclusively to the artistic and symbolic aspects of pre-Hispanic cultures rather than focusing solely on archaeology.

Historical Background and Architecture

The Casa del Alabado dates back to 1671 and was originally a private residence. Its name comes from an inscription above the entrance that reads: “Alabado sea el Santísimo Sacramento” (Blessed be the Holy Sacrament). The house is an excellent example of colonial-era Quito architecture, featuring thick adobe walls, wooden balconies, stone archways, and two beautifully restored courtyards that provide an intimate and peaceful environment for visitors.

In 2006, the building underwent extensive restoration and adaptation to become a museum. By carefully preserving its original architectural elements, the museum provides a historically immersive setting that complements the pre-Columbian artifacts it displays. It officially opened to the public in 2010 and has since been recognized as a significant cultural landmark in Ecuador.

Thematic Approach and Exhibition Concept

Unlike traditional archaeological museums that focus on chronological timelines, the Museo de Arte Precolombino Casa del Alabado organizes its collection based on cosmological themes and spiritual beliefs. This approach allows visitors to experience how ancient Andean civilizations understood their world, nature, and the spiritual realm. The museum's collection is displayed in three main sections, each corresponding to a different dimension of the pre-Columbian worldview:

The Underworld (Ukhu Pacha) – This section explores the spiritual and mystical aspects of ancient cultures, including death rituals, shamanism, and the belief in an afterlife. Many objects in this section depict supernatural beings, transformation processes, and funerary practices.

The Middle World (Kay Pacha) – This section represents the material world where humans lived. The artifacts displayed here include tools, pottery, jewelry, and everyday objects that illustrate daily life, social organization, and economic activities such as agriculture and trade.

The Upper World (Hanan Pacha) – This section focuses on deities, celestial beings, and the connection between humans and the divine. Many pieces in this collection depict gods, sacred animals, and mythological creatures that were believed to influence nature and human fate.

By structuring the exhibits this way, the museum provides a philosophical and cultural perspective on pre-Columbian art rather than a purely historical or archaeological analysis.

Collections and Notable Artifacts

The museum houses over 5,000 artifacts, with approximately 500 pieces on permanent display. These items come from a wide range of ancient Ecuadorian cultures, including the Valdivia, Jama-Coaque, La Tolita, Bahía, Manteño, and Quitu-Cara civilizations. The collection is diverse, featuring objects made from ceramic, stone, metal, shell, and wood. Some of the most significant pieces include:

• Anthropomorphic Ceramics – These detailed sculptures represent deities, shamans, warriors, and ordinary people. Many pieces show figures in ceremonial postures or wearing elaborate headdresses and masks.
• Shamanic Figurines – Many pre-Columbian cultures had a strong shamanic tradition, and this is reflected in figurines depicting human-animal transformations, such as men turning into jaguars or birds.
• Sacred Vessels – Ceremonial pottery was often decorated with intricate carvings and paintings representing cosmological beliefs, fertility symbols, and spiritual journeys.
• Gold and Metalwork – Some cultures, such as the Tolita and Manteño, were known for their skilled metalwork. The museum displays exquisite gold ornaments, earrings, and nose rings used by the elite.
• Stone Carvings – Large basalt and jade carvings depict warriors, gods, and symbolic animals, reflecting the importance of nature and mythology in ancient Andean belief systems.

Each piece in the museum’s collection has been carefully preserved, documented, and interpreted, providing visitors with valuable insights into how pre-Columbian societies viewed life, death, and the cosmos.

Museum Layout and Visitor Experience

The museum’s interior design enhances the visitor experience by creating a meditative and immersive atmosphere. Soft lighting, earth-toned walls, and interactive multimedia elements allow guests to appreciate the artifacts in a way that feels personal and contemplative. The museum is structured into 14 permanent exhibition rooms, as well as spaces for temporary exhibits, educational activities, and workshops.

One of the highlights is the “Sensory Room,” where visitors can touch replica artifacts and explore the textures and forms of pre-Columbian art. This feature makes the museum particularly engaging for children and visually impaired visitors.

There is also a café and a museum shop offering books, reproductions of artifacts, and handmade crafts inspired by indigenous traditions.

Educational and Cultural Significance

The Museo de Arte Precolombino Casa del Alabado plays an essential role in preserving and promoting Ecuador’s indigenous heritage. Through guided tours, workshops, and educational programs, the museum fosters greater awareness and appreciation for the artistic achievements of pre-Hispanic cultures.

It is also involved in academic research and conservation efforts, collaborating with archaeologists and historians to uncover new insights into Ecuador’s ancient civilizations.

Practical Information for Visitors

Location

The museum is situated in Quito’s historic center, near Plaza de San Francisco, making it easily accessible for tourists exploring the city's colonial landmarks.

Best Time to Visit

Morning hours offer quieter visits with better natural lighting for viewing artifacts. The museum is ideal for those who appreciate history, art, and cultural anthropology.

Recommendations for Visitors

• Take your time – The museum’s layout encourages a slow and reflective experience.
• Join a guided tour – Experts provide in-depth explanations of the artifacts and their meanings.
• Visit the shop – Unique gifts inspired by pre-Columbian art are available.

Why Visit the Museo de Arte Precolombino Casa del Alabado?

The Museo de Arte Precolombino Casa del Alabado is not just a museum; it is an artistic and cultural journey into Ecuador’s ancient past. It offers a unique way to understand pre-Hispanic civilizations, their beliefs, and their artistic mastery. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a traveler looking to connect with Ecuador’s indigenous heritage, this museum provides an unforgettable and deeply enriching experience.