The Museo Universitario de Artes Populares María Teresa Pomar, run by the University of Colima, holds one of the region's most complete collections of Mexican folk art, named for the collector and museum founder María Teresa Pomar. Exhibit rooms display masks, textiles, ceramics, and ceremonial costumes from across Mexico, alongside pieces specific to Colima state, including examples of the region's traditional dance and festival attire. The museum occupies a restored colonial-era house near the Jardín Libertad, with rooms arranged around a central patio typical of Centro Histórico architecture. A full visit takes about an hour, covering the permanent collection and any temporary exhibitions. The museum is compact enough that the collection can be appreciated without a guide, though captions are primarily in Spanish. Visitor numbers are modest year-round, with weekday mornings the quietest time and a small uptick around Día de Muertos, when the museum often features related folk-art displays.
Good to know
- Hours
- Tuesday-Saturday 10:00AM-2:00PM and 4:00PM-7:00PM; Sunday 10:00AM-1:00PM; closed Monday
- Best time
- Weekday mornings for the smallest crowds
Location
Calle Manuel Gallardo Zamora 88, Centro, 28000 Colima, Colima, Mexico
19.2419, -103.7269 View on map
Highlights
- Extensive collection of Mexican masks and folk-art costumes
- Colima-specific festival and dance attire
- Restored colonial-era house with central patio
- Rotating temporary exhibitions
Tips for visiting
- Visit on a weekday morning for the quietest galleries
- Spanish-language captions dominate, so a translation app or guidebook helps non-Spanish speakers
- Check for temporary exhibitions timed to Día de Muertos in late October and early November
- The museum is small, easily paired with the nearby Museo Regional de Historia in the same visit
When to visit
Weekday mornings for the smallest crowds, or late October through early November for Día de Muertos-themed exhibitions.
Accessibility
The museum occupies a colonial-era building with some stepped thresholds between rooms, which may pose difficulty for wheelchair users; staff can advise on the most accessible route through the galleries.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
About an hour is enough to see the permanent folk-art collection and any temporary exhibition.
Is it worth it for kids?
The colorful masks and costumes tend to appeal to children, though the museum's compact, quiet galleries suit a shorter family visit.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is generally allowed without flash in most galleries, though visitors should check current signage, as policies can vary by exhibition.