Davao Museum

The rich cultural heritage of Davao stems from the different groups and tribes that populated the area throughout its history. For those interested, the best way to learn about them is by going to the Davao Museum.

The Davao Museum is situated some 12 kilometers (about 7.5 miles) from the heart of the city, and is located near the Davao International airport. This makes it an ideal stop for tourists and travelers.

The museum itself has two floors, and showcases the very best of its culture and crafts. In particular the handicraft, instruments and way of life of the various tribes are presented there. These include the Mandaya, B’laan, Tiboli, Manobo, Mansaka and Baghobo tribes.

When you enter the Davao Museum among the first things that will catch your eye is the timeline, or chronology of historical events of the province. It commences from the earliest archaeological findings, to the settlements of the various indigenous peoples, up to the present day.

The highlight of the Davao Museum are the showcase pieces featuring the various artifacts from the various peoples and historical periods. These range from tribal clothing, handicrafts, pottery, jars and vases (referred to as Martaban). There are also several pieces of jewelry that one can look at. In other words, all the crafts of the ancient peoples you will be able to examine and learn about.

In addition, there is a huge gallery of artwork in the museum. These include, but are not limited to, ceramics, sculptures and carvings of all the various groups and peoples that have lived in Davao. There is also a wide array of musical tools dating from the ancient times on display.

The Davao Museum also contains a large number of archaeological discoveries and artifacts that have been unearthed not just in the province but in several parts of Mindanao. There are also several items that came from the belongings of some of the city’s founding fathers.

Finally there is a souvenir shop right in the Davao Museum where you can purchase items, personally made by the local tribes. Nearby you will also see the women of the various tribes engaged in weaving in the T’Boli Weaving Center. Contructing the cloth from the abaca plants, the work showcases the various myths and legends associated with each tribe.

The Davao Museum is located at the Zonta Building, Insular Village Phase I, Lanang in Davao City, Davao. It is open Mondays to Saturdays from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.