Art lovers cannot help but be impressed by the collection of more than 40,000 paintings and sculptures housed at the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Curators at the Cleveland Museum of Art have spent the last nine decades assembling one of America’s finest and most comprehensive art collections, including more than 40,000 paintings, sculptures and other objects spanning 5,000 years of human history. And with the exception of some special exhibitions, visitors can enjoy this superb national treasure without paying a dime in admission fees.

The museum was incorporated in 1913, a prosperous and progressive era when Cleveland’s wealthy industrialists were funneling some of their riches back into the community. The original building opened at University Circle in 1916, and various additions over the years have expanded the facility to almost 400,000 square feet, with 70 exhibition galleries.

The permanent collection, remarkable for its extraordinary historical and geographical breadth, is particularly strong in Asian and pre-Columbian objects, medieval European art and armor, and late 20th-century art. Paintings include notable works by Caravaggio, El Greco, Rubens, Monet, van Gogh, Picasso and others. The well-regarded curatorial staff generates an ongoing series of temporary exhibitions, and the museum hosts various special events throughout the year, including organ and chamber music recitals, jazz concerts, lectures, workshops and film and video presentations.

The museum is open daily except Mondays and major holidays, with evening hours Wednesdays and Fridays. Visit the museum Web site for details about temporary exhibitions and other special events.

Cleveland Museum of Art
11150 East Boulevard
Cleveland, OH 44106
216-421-7350 or 888-CMA-0033
www.clevelandart.org