Museo Nacional de Etnografia y Folklore (National Museum of Ethnography and Folklore), La Paz

The National Museum of Ethnography and Folklore (Museo Nacional de Etnografía y Folklore) in La Paz is a crucial institution in the field of ethnographic studies in the country. Its origins can be traced back to the founding of the National Museum in 1925, which coincided with Bolivia's Centennial celebrations and marked the beginning of the Scientific Department of Ethnography.

Officially opened on August 23, 1962, the National Museum of Ethnography and Folklore is located in the historic Marquises of Villaverde palace, a structure dating back to 1730. This building, situated at the intersection of Ingavi and Jenaro Sanjinés streets, is a splendid example of colonial architecture with its layout centered around three patios. It holds significant cultural value in Bolivia and was designated a national monument in 1930.

The museum's collection is extensive, housing approximately 30,000 cultural artifacts. These include items from pre-Hispanic, colonial, and contemporary periods, such as masks, ceramics, textiles, feather art, and numismatic pieces, originating from various regions within Bolivia. Additionally, the museum boasts one of the country's most comprehensive collections of documentary resources, with around 171,000 items, including recordings and audiovisual materials.

The National Museum of Ethnography and Folklore supports cultural preservation and fosters social science research and academic discourse. It serves as a vital venue for significant national events, including academic debates and seminars. Since 1987, the museum has been hosting the Annual Meeting of Ethnology (RAE), a noteworthy event featuring seminars, talks, round tables, and other activities focused on anthropology and related social sciences.