National Art Gallery

Lonely Planet review

The National Art Gallery has a vast collection embracing five centuries of Venezuelan artistic expression. Anything from pre-Hispanic art to mind-boggling modern kinetic pieces may be showcased here in temporary exhibitions. Designed in 1935 by Venezuelan architect Carlos Raúl Villanueva, the graceful building radiates from a neoclassical-style courtyard with a pond and weeping willow. The gallery also houses Caracas' leading art cinema.

Adjoining the gallery, the Museo de Bellas Artes (Museum of Fine Arts) is in a more functional modern six-story building, also designed by Villanueva.

Wednesday to Sunday, hippie artisans set up stalls in front of the gallery. It's a great place to pick up bracelets, necklaces and popular crafts. Inside the gallery, there is a pricier modern art and crafts store with some exquisite wares.