Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia
Valenciana, Comunidad
The Museum of Fine Arts of Valencia, founded in 1913, is one of Spain's foremost art museums, renowned for its extensive collection of paintings spanning from the 14th to the early 20th century. Located in the historic St. Pius V Palace, the museum showcases approximately 2,000 works, including notable pieces such as Diego Velázquez's Self Portrait, El Greco's Saint John the Baptist, and Goya's Playing Children. Its collections highlight the evolution of Valencian art, featuring Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassical, and modern influences. The museum also houses sculptures, contemporary art, and archaeological artifacts. The building itself, originally a 17th–18th century seminary, features a quadrangular layout around a cloister and an octagonal temple with a striking blue-tiled dome. The museum is a cultural beacon reflecting Valencian artistic heritage and broader European art movements, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers and historians alike.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check the museum's official website for current opening hours and any temporary exhibitions. The best time to visit is during weekdays to avoid crowds. Tickets can often be purchased online in advance, and discounts are available for students, seniors, and groups. Guided tours are recommended to fully appreciate the museum's rich collections and historical context.
Interesting facts
- •The museum holds one of the most important collections of Valencian Gothic paintings from the 14th and 15th centuries.
- •It houses a complete altarpiece by the Italian master Gherardo Starnina and a Madonna with Child and Donor by Pinturicchio.
- •The building’s blue-tiled dome was reconstructed after being demolished in 1925.
- •During the Spanish Civil War, the museum was used as a storage site for the Artistic Treasure and part of its collection was moved to the Prado Museum in Madrid for protection.
- •The museum features a marble courtyard, the Patio del Embajador Vich, reconstructed in 2006 using pieces from a demolished palace dating back to 1859.
History
The Museum of Fine Arts of Valencia was officially established in 1913, becoming autonomous and separate from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Carlos.
During the Spanish Civil War, the museum's collections were safeguarded by relocating many works to Madrid's Prado Museum.
After the war, under director Manuel González Martí, efforts were made to recover and restore the museum's holdings.
The current building, the former Colegio Seminario de San Pío V, was originally founded in the late 17th century as a seminary and completed in the 18th century.
It features Baroque and Neoclassical architectural elements and was adapted to house the museum after the Civil War, reflecting a rich historical evolution from religious institution to cultural landmark.
Place Guide
St. Pius V Palace17th–18th century
The historic 17th–18th century building housing the museum, originally built as a seminary with Baroque and Neoclassical architectural features. It includes a quadrangular layout around a cloister and an octagonal temple with a notable blue-glazed tile dome.
Patio del Embajador VichReconstructed in 2006
A marble courtyard originally from a demolished palace, reconstructed within the museum in 2006. It adds a historic and elegant space for visitors to appreciate Renaissance marble work.
Velázquez’s Self Portraitcirca 1640
A masterful self-portrait by Diego Velázquez, one of the museum's most celebrated works, showcasing the artist’s skill and introspective style.
Saint John the Baptist by El Grecolate 16th century
An expressive painting by El Greco depicting Saint John the Baptist, illustrating the artist’s distinctive elongated figures and vibrant colors.
Playing Children by Francisco Goyalate 18th century
A charming painting by Francisco Goya portraying children at play, reflecting Goya’s skill in capturing everyday life with warmth and realism.
Contact
Phone: 963 87 03 00