National Museum of Fine Arts

Discover the National Museum of Fine Arts, a monumental structure in Manila steeped in history and artistry. Originally designed as the Old Legislative Building by Ralph Harrington Doane, Antonio Mañalac Toledo, and Juan M. Arellano, this architectural gem stands as a testament to Filipino heritage. Construction began in 1918 and concluded in 1926, initially envisioned as the National Library before evolving into the Legislative Building. Arellano's revisions included a fourth floor and legislative chambers, enhancing its grandeur. The building endured significant damage during World War II in February 1945 when Japanese forces fortified it. Rebuilt in 1949, it retained its original footprint but with a less ornate facade.

Architectural Highlights

Explore the four-story building, featuring a rectangular layout oriented east-west, with entrances on both sides. Admire the columned portico with Corinthian columns at the west entrance and the giant Corinthian columns and pilasters adorning the facades. The central bay showcases four columns with corbeled balconies, while pediments with relief sculptures, including Inang Bayan surrounded by Greek deities, crown the east and west sides. Enjoy panoramic views of Intramuros and Luneta from the west and south sides.

Historical Significance

Declared a National Historical Landmark on September 30, 2010, by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), the building honors its role in significant political milestones, including the Constitutional Convention in 1934 and the inaugurations of Presidents Manuel L. Quezon, Jose P. Laurel, and Manuel Roxas. During Martial Law in 1972, it served as the Executive House of the Prime Minister. A marker commemorating this declaration was unveiled on October 29, 2010. The restored old Senate Session Hall was inaugurated on October 29, 2012, reviving its pre-war architectural glory. A Philippine Flag Hoisting marker was unveiled on July 16, 2019, honoring the site's historic value, with the Philippine Flag permanently hoisted and lighted at night.

Art Collections and Exhibitions

Today, the National Museum of Fine Arts houses 29 galleries and hallway exhibitions, showcasing 19th-century Filipino masters, National Artists, modern painters, sculptors, and printmakers. Discover art loans from other institutions and individuals, as well as sculptures enhancing the grounds.

Metropolitan Museum of Manila

Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Manila in BGC, which has welcomed over 50,000 visitors since October 2022. Explore 15 contemporary art exhibitions and monthly public programs. Currently on view is *Hail Holy Eyes*, tracing the evolution of Jigger Cruz, curated by Norman Crisologo and running from November 19, 2025, to March 1, 2026. Also showing is *Chronologies: Selections from the M Collection*, exploring time and sequence, curated by May Lyn Cruz and on view until January 2026. Located at MK Tan Centre, 30th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, the Metropolitan Museum of Manila is open Tuesday to Friday from 11 AM to 6 PM and Saturday to Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM.

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