The Billionaire’s Museum in Mexico City
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Soumaya Museum is as impressive outside as inside.
The idea of building a museum with free entry to provide access to art for people who may not have the means to travel the world or visit expensive exhibitions is indeed a noble and inspiring concept. Carlos Slim, a Mexican billionaire and art enthusiast, has set a remarkable example with his ownership of the Museo Soumaya in Mexico City.
This extraordinary museum is a treasure trove of artistic wonders, showcasing an extensive collection that spans from 20th-century Mexican art to the masterpieces of Impressionism.
In short, the museum is named after his late wife, Soumaya Domit. She, like Carlos, was a lover of art and culture, and they traveled the world together just for that purpose. After his wife died, he finally decided to establish such a space dedicated to world art, with the aim of bringing artwork closer to Mexicans so they don’t need to travel or pay to see the exhibitions.
Museo Soumaya in Mexico City serves as a testament to this vision. Not only does it house an impressive collection of artworks, but it also offers free admission to the public. Also the museum’s exterior, with its awe-inspiring design. It’s an intricately arranged facade of 16,000 aluminum hexagons.
As I entered the museum, I was greeted by a magnificent replica of Michelangelo’s David, standing at a towering height of approximately 5.17 meters. Adjacent to it, the mosaic mural Río Juchitán / Baño en el Río o Baño de Tehuantepec by Diego Rivera added a vibrant and captivating touch to the entrance.
With nearly 70,000 pieces in its collection, the museum is divided into six floors, each offering a distinct artistic experience. As I made my way to the upper floors, I found myself immersed in the Sala Julián and Linda Slim, dedicated to the works of Auguste Rodin and European sculpture of the 19th and 20th centuries. About 100 pieces of Rodin’s sculpture stand neatly…
