completed in the late 40's, further additions continued until the late sixties,  with  its greatest challenge being resurrecting itself after a devastating fire in 1978 damaged the structure and destroyed works by picasso, joan miró, Max Ernst, and salvador Dalí. reopened in 1982 in its current form, the main building kept rational architecture principles, while the mam's gardens, conceived by roberto burle marx, kept open spaces as the main focus.

extremely innovative in design, the museum displays stunning art exhibitions, and hosts regular special events. it archives nearly 1700 pieces by artists from latin america and other parts of the world, in addition to the temporary exhibitions that change throughout the year.