House of the Masks, Acapulco

The Mask Museum is a remarkable testament to Mexican artistry and cultural expression. Originally built as a traditional Mexican-style residence, this historic building has since been transformed into a captivating museum dedicated to one of the country’s most symbolic art forms: the mask. Today, it houses over 500 pieces, each reflecting a different region, ritual, or artistic tradition.

The museum’s collection spans a wide range of styles and purposes. Visitors will find ceremonial masks used in pre-Hispanic religious rites, characters from popular festivals, and theatrical masks inspired by regional dance traditions. Some pieces are made from carved wood and painted by hand, while others incorporate leather, clay, layered paper, or even animal hair. Many masks represent animals, deities, or mythic figures, revealing the deep interplay between art, identity, and storytelling in Mexican culture.

One of the museum’s highlights is its emphasis on living tradition. Several masks come from communities that still use them today during events such as the Dance of the Concheros, the Dance of the Little Old Men, or the famous Devils' Dance. Each object has its own symbolism, often tied to ideas of transformation, protection, or spiritual presence.