The José María Velasco Museum pays tribute to one of Mexico’s most celebrated artists. The impressive gallery contains beautiful pieces by this 19th-century landscape painter, who glorified the country’s terrain in his work. Browse the oil paintings and drawings for an idea of Velasco’s talents. Several other artists are featured as well within the 40 inspiring pieces in the museum.
Enter the 17th-century colonial mansion that contains the collection of artworks. Admire the colorful walls and columns in the courtyard and stroll through the halls to see the various paintings. The building has 10 permanent exhibition rooms.
Inspect some of Velasco’s most acclaimed works, such as Volcanoes from the Valley of Ocotlán, Volcanoes of the Valley of Mexico and The Subjects Announce to Moctezuma the Arrival of Cortés. Notice his use of oils to create the dramatic backgrounds of these masterpieces.
The gallery also holds several gems by some of Velasco’s contemporaries, including Petronilo Monroy, Saturnino Herrán and Luis Coto. Embark on a free guided tour for a comprehensive understanding of the works.
Examine the artworks in the temporary exhibits, which often change. Peruse the books in the library. Meditate on your favorite art pieces as you relax in the mansion’s café. The museum also offers workshops, lectures and presentations.
Consider the intriguing history of the museum building, which was in previous incarnations a candle store and a secretarial school. It is also the house where the priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla spent a night before the Battle of Monte de las Cruces in 1810, a pivotal event in the Mexican War of Independence.
Note that the museum opens to the public Tuesday through Sunday from morning until afternoon. There is an admission fee to enter the gallery.
The José María Velasco Museum is in the northern limits of the historic center of Toluca. Get around this fascinating part of the city on foot. Visit nearby attractions, such as the Morelos Theater, San José de Toluca Cathedral and the Museum of Fine Arts.