Museo De Arte Tigre
Set in a lavish former social club on the banks of the Río de la Plata, the Museo de Arte Tigre (MAT) is a stunning Belle Époque building that houses an exceptional collection of Argentine art from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum itself is a masterpiece, with ornate stained-glass windows, marble staircases, and sweeping river views that make it a destination in its own right. A short train ride from Buenos Aires, Tigre offers a refreshing riverside escape, and the MAT is its cultural crown jewel.
Highlights & What to See
- Belle Époque architecture: The building, designed by architects Dubois & Paulier, was inaugurated in 1912 as the Tigre Club. Its grand ballroom, with a hand-painted ceiling and crystal chandeliers, is a highlight.
- Argentine art collection: The museum focuses on national artists from the 19th and 20th centuries, including works by Prilidiano Pueyrredón, Benito Quinquela Martín, and Antonio Berni. The permanent exhibition traces the evolution of Argentine painting from Romanticism to Modernism.
- Río de la Plata views: The terrace and windows offer panoramic vistas of the river and the Paraná Delta, perfect for photography or a quiet moment.
- Temporary exhibitions: The museum also hosts rotating shows of contemporary Argentine art, often in dialogue with the permanent collection.
- The café and shop: Relax at the café with a coffee and pastry, or browse the museum shop for art books and locally made crafts.
Suggested Time to Spend
Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the museum thoroughly, including the permanent collection and any temporary exhibits. Add another 30 minutes to enjoy the terrace views and a coffee. Many visitors combine a morning at the MAT with a stroll through Tigre’s riverside market or a boat trip into the Paraná Delta, making for a full-day excursion from Buenos Aires.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Tigre Delta: Take a catamaran or private boat through the labyrinthine waterways of the Paraná Delta, visiting islands with charming houses, restaurants, and artisan shops.
- Puerto de Frutos: A lively riverside market selling handicrafts, furniture, and local food; a great spot for souvenirs and people-watching.
- Tigre Art Museum (MAT) itself: The museum is the anchor, but the surrounding park (Parque de la Costa) offers walking paths and a fairground.
- San Isidro: A leafy suburb with a historic cathedral, cobblestone streets, and the picturesque Quinta Los Ombúes museum; a pleasant stop on the train line from Buenos Aires.
- Buenos Aires: The city is just 30 minutes by train, making it easy to return after a day in Tigre.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Puerto de Frutos — Alex Proimos from Sydney, Australia / CC BY 2.0
- San Isidro — Ciudades / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Buenos Aires — Greenville, SC Daily Photo / CC CC0 1.0
- Parque de la Costa — Gerencia de Imagen Institucional - Municipalidad distrital de San Miguel / CC0