Introduction
Perched high within the historic stone walls of Dalt Vila, the Museu d'Art Contemporani d'Eivissa (MACE) offers a striking dialogue between Ibiza’s storied past and its avant-garde present. Established in 1969, making it one of the oldest contemporary art museums in Spain, the gallery is housed in a magnificent 18th-century building that originally served as the Hall of Arms and powder store for the Ibiza Royal Forces. This architectural marvel, built in 1727 within the bastion of Sant Joan, seamlessly blends robust military fortifications with light-filled, modern glass extensions, providing a unique and atmospheric backdrop for the island's artistic heritage.
The museum serves as a vital record of the creative explosion that transformed Ibiza into a global cultural hub during the mid-20th century. Visitors can explore a rich permanent collection that celebrates both local masters and international figures who found sanctuary and inspiration on the White Isle. Highlights include the intricate works of Ibizan artists Antoni Marí Ribas "Portmany" and Rafel Tur i Costa, alongside abstract masterpieces by renowned visitors such as Will Faber, Erwin Broner, and Antoni Tàpies. In a fascinating twist, the museum also preserves the island’s ancient roots; during renovations, Phoenician archaeological remains were discovered beneath the foundations and are now visible through glass floor panels.
For any traveler seeking to understand the soul of Eivissa beyond its famous nightlife, MACE is an essential stop. It offers a cool, contemplative sanctuary where the Mediterranean light dances across cutting-edge sculptures and paintings. Whether you are an art aficionado or a casual explorer, the museum’s elevated position in the Old Town provides not only world-class culture but also breathtaking views of the harbor, making it a cornerstone of the Dalt Vila experience.
Highlights
- Punic Archaeological Remains (6th Century BC): Visible through the museum's innovative glass floors, these ancient dwellings and cisterns provide a stunning historical foundation to the contemporary gallery space.
- The Building: Old Hall of Arms (1727): This historic military structure in the Sant Joan bastion serves as a primary exhibit itself, showcasing a seamless architectural integration of 18th-century stone and modern minimalist design.
- Drawings and Sketches by Antoni Marí Ribas "Portmany" (Various years): These expressive works by Ibiza’s most celebrated local draughtsman capture the daily life and soul of the island through masterful, rapid lines.
- Abstract Compositions by Rafel Tur i Costa (1960s–2020): This collection highlights the evolution of the Santa Eulària-born artist, known for his geometric rigor and his profound use of white space and texture.
- Mixed Media Works by Will Faber (1960s): These pieces represent the influx of international avant-garde talent to the island, blending European abstraction with the unique light and atmosphere of the Mediterranean.
- Constructivist Paintings by Erwin Broner (1970s): A key figure in Ibiza’s modern movement, Broner’s paintings reflect the same functionalist and architectural precision found in his iconic island villa designs.
- Informalist Canvas by Antoni Tàpies (1960s): This significant work by the Spanish master demonstrates the museum’s commitment to showcasing world-class contemporary art with deep connections to the Balearic creative scene.
- Ibiza Biennial Poster Collection (1964–present): This vibrant graphic archive documents the museum’s long history and the island's legacy as a global hub for printmaking and experimental design.
Getting There
Public Transport
Ibiza operates an extensive public transport network with over 60 bus lines and a central bus station in Eivissa known as CETIS. Visitors can use Moovit to find step-by-step directions, ferry connections, and updated schedules for routes serving the museum. During the summer season, the transit network is supplemented by popular beach lines and the Discobus.
Walking
The museum is situated in the historic Zona Dalt Vila. Walking is the most common way to reach the site, as visitors can navigate the ancient streets of the fortified old town to reach the entrance on Ronda de Narcis Puget Viñas.
Taxi and Car
If traveling by taxi or private vehicle, the museum is located at Ronda de Narcis Puget Viñas, 07800 Eivissa. The site is positioned at the coordinates 38.91, 1.43.
Parking
Due to its location within the historic Zona Dalt Vila district, parking in the immediate vicinity of the museum is limited. Visitors arriving by car should plan to park in the surrounding city areas and complete the journey to the museum on foot.
Admission & Opening Hours
Opening Hours
The Museu D'art Contemporani D'eivissa follows a consistent morning schedule throughout the week, though it remains closed to the public on Mondays.
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 10:00-14:00
- Wednesday: 10:00-14:00
- Thursday: 10:00-14:00
- Friday: 10:00-14:00
- Saturday: 10:00-14:00
- Sunday: 10:00-14:00
Admission
Information regarding ticket prices and entry requirements is currently unavailable. Visitors are advised to check the museum's official website for the most up-to-date admission details.
Nearby Attractions
- Portal de ses Taules (50 m, 1 min): This historic main gateway to the fortified city is located just inside the ancient walls near the museum's entrance.
- Dalt Vila (0 m, 0 min): The museum is set within this UNESCO-listed old town, creating a strong contrast between contemporary creativity and historic, archaeological surroundings.
- Necropolis of Puig des Molins (850 m, 11 min): This nearby archaeological site and museum preserves the ancient Punic history and burial grounds of the island.
Know Before You Go
Accessibility
- The Museu D'art Contemporani D'eivissa is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all visitors can navigate the galleries and experience the contemporary art collections without barriers.
Photography
- Photography for personal, non-commercial use is generally permitted. Visitors are requested to disable their flash and refrain from using tripods or selfie sticks to protect the artwork and maintain a pleasant environment for others.
Best Time to Visit
- To enjoy a quieter and more contemplative atmosphere, it is best to visit during the early morning or late afternoon. As a typical visit duration is not specified, arriving during these off-peak times allows you to explore the exhibitions at your own pace.
Facilities
- While specific internal services are not specified for this venue, its central location in Eivissa ensures that visitors are within close proximity to a variety of local amenities, including cafes and public facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Museu d’Art Contemporani d’Eivissa (MACE)? A: MACE is one of the most significant cultural institutions in Ibiza, dedicated to the creative explosion of local and international artists that has characterized the island since the 1960s. It was inaugurated in 1969, making it one of the oldest contemporary art museums in Spain.
Q: Where is the museum located? A: The museum is situated in the "Dalt Vila" (Old Town) of Eivissa. It occupies a historic, elevated position within the Bastion of Sant Joan, offering a unique blend of heritage and modern culture.
Q: What is the history of the museum building? A: The museum is housed in the former Hall of Arms of the Ibiza Royal Forces, an 18th-century structure originally erected in 1727. Before its conversion into a gallery, the building served as a powder store and military armoury.
Q: What kind of art is featured in the permanent collection? A: The collection focuses on contemporary art with a strong Ibizan connection. Visitors can explore:
- Works by prominent Ibizan artists such as Antoni Marí Ribas Portmany and Rafel Tur i Costa.
- Abstract art from renowned international visitors including Will Faber, Erwin Broner, and Antoni Tàpies.
- Sculptures and paintings that reflect the island's history as a refuge for creative minds.
Q: How can I reach the museum via public transport? A: You can reach the museum using Ibiza’s extensive bus network, which includes over 60 lines connecting at the central CETIS bus station in Eivissa. For real-time schedules and step-by-step directions, visitors are encouraged to use Moovit.
Q: Are there special transport options available during the summer? A: Yes, during the peak summer season, the island operates popular "Discobus" routes and specialized beach lines to accommodate the influx of visitors.
Q: Is the museum accessible for those with mobility concerns? A: Because the museum is located in a "higher place" within the historic old town, the approach involves navigating the steep, cobblestone streets of the Dalt Vila. However, the building itself is a contemporary design that is well-integrated into the historic site.
Q: What should I know about the local time and seasonal changes? A: Ibiza operates in the Europe/Madrid timezone. If you are planning a visit during the shoulder seasons, remember that Daylight Saving Time begins on the last Sunday of March (clocks move forward) and ends on the last Sunday of October (clocks move back).
Q: Are there other attractions near the museum? A: Yes, being located in the heart of the Dalt Vila, the museum is surrounded by historic fortifications and is a short walk from other major landmarks in the old town, offering panoramic views of the Eivissa harbor.