After 10 years in the making, the city of San Antonio, Texas will welcome this week the opening of brand new museum dedicated exclusively to Latino culture and its history, the Museo Alameda. Its mission: To tell the story of the Latino experience in America through art, history and culture.

The museum, located in the heart of San Antonio, in the historic Plaza El Mercado, belongs to the Alameda National Center for Latin Culture and the Arts and was created with support of the Smithsonian Institution, one of the most important philanthropic organizations in the U.S.

Organizers hope that the Museo Alameda, which has among its treasures an emerald ring that once belonged to the emperor Maximiliano de México, will attract 400,000 visitors per year. “U.S. culture is written in Hispanic ink and this museum is the best way to show our own and others our invaluable contribution to history,” said businessman Henry R. Muñoz, founder of the museum.

If you are in San Antonio, don’t miss the grand opening celebration this Friday night, which includes a free concert by Linda Ronstadt and fireworks. The museum will also be giving free admission to visitors all weekend. Visit, then tell us what you think of it!

Via / El Pais