Tibes Museum: A Close Encounter

Abstract

The permanent exhibition at the Archaeological Museum of Tibes underwent a profound transformation in 1989. From an object-based exhibition, it moved to another with a greater conceptual emphasis, the main objectives of which were to offer both an adequate context to the exhibited pieces and a necessary connection between past and present. With this transformation, the identification of the present Puerto Rican people with indigenous ancestors was intended through a series of activities and common daily actions, using various museum resources that help visitors to understand the true scope of these inks. Almost three decades later, this "meta-discourse" of national affirmation remains in force.