Every year since 1977, International Museum Day (IMD) has been celebrated, an event that represents a unique moment for the international museum community. Its aim is to raise awareness of the importance of museums as vehicles for cultural exchange, enriching cultures, and fostering mutual understanding, cooperation, and peace among peoples. Held annually on May 18, IMD was first celebrated over 40 years ago, and each year more museums around the world participate in this event. According to organizers, last year more than 37,000 museums in 158 countries and territories joined the celebration.
According to the San Cristóbal de las Casas Museum Network, one of the organizers, the second edition of International Museum Day (IMD) 2026 will take place on May 18, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., at the former Convent of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, with a program of free cultural activities for the general public.
The event is organized by the San Cristóbal de Las Casas Museum Network, comprised of more than 18 museums and cultural centers, in coordination with the Center for Textiles of the Mayan World and the Cultural Center of the Highlands of Chiapas. This year, the international theme is “Museums Uniting a Divided World,” promoted by the International Council of Museums (ICOM).
Currently, there are 22 museums in San Cristóbal de las Casas, although not all will participate in the event. Among the cultural spaces offering exhibitions, presentations, and artistic activities are the Carlos Jurado Cultural Center, the Carmen Cultural Center, the Eliseo Palacios Aguilera Paleontology Museum, the Kakaw Museum, the Mesoamerican Jade Museum, the San Cristóbal Museum, the Municipal Historical Archive, and the San José Educational Park, among others.
Finally, the organizer noted that there are 50 museums registered in the Cultural Information System (SIC) in the state of Chiapas, 14 of which are located in San Cristóbal de las Casas. The celebration aims to strengthen dialogue, inclusion, and the dissemination of cultural heritage. She also highlighted that a replica of King Pakal can be visited on Comitán Street as part of the public activities.
Source: oem
