The Historical Museum building, built in 1892 by the famous architect of the nineteenth century Jose VIERA, located next to the Plaza de Armas in the centre of La Serena. Construction of two-storey house with projecting cornice of Adobe, was fought on the land that belonged to the founder of the town of Francisco de Agir. The architectural style of the building is eclectic.

The Museum is named in honor of former Chilean President Gabriel gonzález Saw, who was born in La Serena and gave the city a second life through the creation of the urban renewal plan of the city.

From 1927 to 1973 in this building lived the family of President Gonzalez. In 1977 the room with the property was bought by the city of La Serena. In 1981 it was announced that the building is a national monument of Chile. In 1984 he founded the Museum of history and art La Serena in order to pay tribute to the former President, as well as for the study, preservation and demonstration of his work.

The Museum collection consists of 3,500 objects, distributed on two themes: history and fine art.

In the history section exhibited everything that surrounded President Gabriel gonzález Seen in his life: furniture, documents, family photos, videos, awards, architectural layout plan in La Serena. Also widely covered by regional history: the objects of everyday life of the inhabitants of the region of Coquimbo and La Serena. The costumes of the XIX and XX centuries, sculptures from the island of Rapa Nui (culture moai), paintings on a religious theme from metal and clay.

In the section of fine arts gallery exhibited, presented to Oscar Paguera divided into two expositions. On the second floor hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary artists, as well as permanent exhibitions, including the works of Pablo Picasso and Joan miró.

Also includes books written by local authors, telling about the history and culture of the region, which may be purchased by the visitors of the Museum. Training seminars relating to cultural heritage.