Chiapas has a wealth of history and culture that can be seen and enjoyed through a variety of different museums. From ancient artifacts to coffee, below is a list of must-see museums in each region of Mexico’s southernmost state.
Chiapa de Corzo
Originally built in the 16th century, Santo Domingo is a former Dominican monastery. Nowadays, the eye-catching bright white and red outlined façade welcomes visitors to the original church that still functions, while the Museo de la Laca (Lacquerware Museum) in the adjacent building showcases 450 pieces of beautiful lacquerware from various parts of Mexico, Guatemala and Asia.
Palenque
At the site of one of the most important ancient Maya structures in all of Mexico, be sure to make a pit stop at the L’huillier Museum in Palenque after exploring the outdoor ruins themselves. At the museum, view hundreds of archaic artifacts that have been unearthed and preserved through modern-day excavations that shine light on how the ancient Maya lived hundreds of years ago.
San Cristóbal de las Casas
Casa Na Bolom (which translates to “House of the Jaguar”), is a hidden gem in the historic city center of San Cristóbal de las Casas that blends a museum, hotel and restaurant altogether. The space occupies the former home of explorer Frans Blom and journalist Gertrude Duby, who spent over fifty years collecting local tools, handicrafts, archeological pieces and clothing across Chiapas. View pieces from their extensive collection along with a library that contains over 10,000 books dedicated to local history and culture, as well as a serene botanical garden.
Tuxtla Gutierrez
You can’t visit Chiapas without appreciating the importance of coffee to the region. Visit the Tuxtla Gutiérrez Coffee Museum to discover the social, economic and cultural impact that coffee has had—not only to Chiapas but to all of Mexico—and be sure to save time to enjoy the tasting room and coffee bar after your guided tour.
Photos: Expedia