Presley Norton Museum

★★★★★ 4.6/5 (6,419 reviews) Excellent

About This Museum

Tucked away on a bustling avenue in the heart of Guayaquil, the Presley Norton Museum feels like a secret whispered among history lovers. It's housed in the grand old mansion of Ismael Pérez Pazmiño, the founder of the influential El Universo newspaper, which gives the place an immediate sense of gravitas. You walk in and are instantly transported through millennia of Ecuadorian history, long before the city's modern skyline ever existed. It’s one of those special places where the building itself is as much a part of the story as the artifacts it protects.

Collection Highlights

The real draw is its stunning collection of pre-Columbian ceramics, with pieces from the Valdivia, Chorrera, and Guayaquil cultures that tell a deep story of this land. You'll find everything from elegant Valdivia Venus figurines to intricate Manteño stone seats, each one a tangible connection to the people who shaped this region.

Visitor Information

It's easy to find right on Avenida 9 de Octubre, and it makes for a perfect, quiet escape from the city's hustle. Just check their current opening hours before you go, as they can be subject to change.

Architecture & Building

The building is a beautiful example of early 20th-century Republican-era architecture, all elegant lines and timeless character that perfectly suits its role as a keeper of local memory.

Contact & Location

Address: Carchí, Barrio Garay, Parroquia 9 de Octubre, Guayaquil, Guayas, 090310, Ecuador

Phone: +593 4-229-3423

Website: Visit Website