Be dazzled by the pieces of carved jade at the Mesoamerican Museum of Jade and discover just how important this stone was to the region’s ancient peoples. This delightful museum holds hundreds of items of jade, including replica masks and statues and jewelry. Visit the store where you can purchase beautiful jewelry items made on site.
Jade was considered mystical by the ancient people of Mesoamerica and symbolized wealth, power, eternity, love and immortality. Even the very poorest people were buried with at least one small jade bead in their mouths to aid them on their way to heaven. The wealthy went to their graves adorned in jade masks and jewelry, as the stone was considered the most precious thing possible. Wander the four halls of the museum to see many excellent replicas of these famous masks most originals are today housed in foreign museums or private collections. View the many other splendid objects and jewels as well.
The museum depicts the jade-carving art forms of the eight main cultures of the Mesoamerican area: Mocaya, Olmec, Teotihuacan, Mixtec, Zapotec, Maya, Toltec and Aztec. Discover the masks of ancient kings, as well as pieces from as far away as Honduras, Guatemala and Belize. One of the highlights is the replica of the mausoleum of K’inich Janaab’ Pakal, the 11th ruler of the ancient Mayan city of Palenque.
Treat yourself to a beautiful piece of jewelry in the museum’s store. On-site designers combine the jade with gold and silver to create one-of-a-kind pieces. Each piece has a story and makes an exceptional gift or memento of your trip.
The Mesoamerican Museum of Jade is located in the Zona Central (central zone). Access it easily with just a short walk from the Cathedral of Saint Christopher. The museum is open every afternoon, with shorter hours on Sundays. There is an entrance fee.
