Ayala Museum, Makati

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The Ayala Museum is a private historical and arts museum located in Greenbelt Park, Makati Avenue corner Dela Rosa Street in Makati City. It was established by Ayala Foundation in 1967 initially at the Insular Life Building but later moved to Makati Avenue. The structure was upgraded in 2004 and in celebration of Ayala Corporation's 170th anniversary, the Ayala Museum became their “Gift to the Filipino People”.

The Museum is a multi storey modern structure designed by Leandro Locsin and Partner (a firm established by the late National Artist for architecture-Archt. Leandro Locsin). It houses six (6) permanent collections namely:

Diorama a collection of 60 dioramas crafted by local artisans of Paete, Laguna commissioned by Ayala Foundation to create dioramas depicting the history of the Philippines and its people starting from the prehistoric times and commencing in the first People Power in 1986.Some highlights of this collection are the Tabon Cave in Palawan, the First mass in Cebu and the declaration of Philippine Independence.

Boat Gallery a collection of well crafted boat/ship models that frequented Manila since pre Hispanic times. These were the vessels that clearly played an important role in the development of trade and commerce in the Philippines. The collection includes pre-hispanic sailboat, chinese junk,Arabian Baghla, Lorcha, Caravel and the famous Galleon.

Pioneers of Philippine Art is a collection of works of three great Filipino artists during the late 19th century to 20th century. These artists are Juan Luna famous for his Spoliarium ; Fernando Amorsolo said to be the most important Filipino Painter that ever lived and; Fernando Zobel de Ayala, a dedicated artist and patron. He pioneered a new way of painting using hypodermic syringe and Ayala Museum was established basically because of him.

Crossroads of Civilization

Gold of Ancestors — A collection of gold objects from the 10th to 13th century A.D. indicating the eloquence of Filipino life during the pre-Spanish era. Most are adornments of the rich and famous that includes an array of earrings, rings, anklets, bracelets and even golden sash.


Embroidered Multiples - A collection of Philippine garments that includes hand-embroidered silk trousers for the elite Filipino in the late 1900s;embroidered blouses. These items are loaned from several collectors like Rina Ortiz, Pardo de Tavera and French Diplomat Bréjard.

A Millennium of Contact - a collection of ceramics spanning a 1000 years indicating Philippines’ early trade relation with other Southeast Asian countries and China.

For a fee, the Museum is open for viewing except on Mondays.