Prado Museum
Madrid, Comunidad de
The Prado Museum, officially Museo Nacional del Prado, is Spain's main national art museum located in central Madrid. Established in 1819, it originated from the Spanish royal collection and is renowned for its extensive holdings of European art, especially Spanish masterpieces. The museum's collection spans from the 12th century to the early 20th century, including approximately 8,200 drawings, 7,600 paintings, and 1,000 sculptures. It features iconic works by Francisco Goya, the most represented artist, as well as masterpieces by Hieronymus Bosch, El Greco, Peter Paul Rubens, Titian, and Diego Velázquez. Velázquez notably contributed to enriching the museum's Italian masters' collection. The Prado is part of Madrid's Golden Triangle of Art alongside the Thyssen-Bornemisza and Reina Sofía museums, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The museum's architecture, originally designed by Juan de Villanueva in 1785 as a Natural History Cabinet, was repurposed to house the royal art collection. Over the centuries, the Prado has expanded through acquisitions, donations, and incorporation of other museum collections, making it a cultural beacon reflecting Spain's artistic heritage and European art history.
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Tip: To avoid long queues, it is recommended to purchase tickets online in advance. The best time to visit is during weekdays in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy quieter galleries. Discounts are available for students, seniors, and large groups. The museum offers guided tours and audio guides to enrich the visitor experience. Check the official website for current opening hours and special exhibitions.
Interesting facts
- •The Prado Museum holds the world's largest collection of Spanish art, including masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco.
- •It features over 39,000 pieces including paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, and decorative arts.
- •The building was originally intended as a Natural History Cabinet before becoming an art museum.
- •The Prado is part of Madrid's Golden Triangle of Art, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2021.
- •The museum displays around 1,300 works at a time, with thousands more in storage or on loan.
- •It was ranked as the 16th most-visited art museum worldwide in 2020.
History
The Prado Museum's building was designed in 1785 by Juan de Villanueva originally to house the Natural History Cabinet.
However, it was converted into a Royal Museum of Paintings and Sculptures, opening to the public in 1819 under King Ferdinand VII.
The museum was established to showcase the Spanish Crown's art collection and assert the value of Spanish art internationally.
Over the 19th and 20th centuries, the Prado underwent several expansions and renovations to accommodate its growing collection and visitor numbers.
The museum absorbed collections from other institutions like the Museo de la Trinidad and Museo de Arte Moderno, enriching its holdings.
Its core collection was significantly developed during the reigns of Charles V and subsequent Habsburg and Bourbon monarchs who acquired masterpieces from European masters.
Place Guide
Velázquez Gallery
This gallery houses some of the most important works by Diego Velázquez, including 'Las Meninas', considered one of the most influential paintings in Western art history.
Goya Collection
Featuring the most extensive collection of Francisco Goya's works, this section highlights his evolution from court painter to a master of dark, expressive art reflecting Spain's turbulent history.
Hieronymus Bosch Room
This room displays Bosch's enigmatic and surreal paintings, including 'The Garden of Earthly Delights', renowned for its complex symbolism.
Italian Masters Collection
A distinguished collection of Italian Renaissance and Baroque paintings, featuring works by Titian, Raphael, Tintoretto, and others, many acquired through Velázquez's influence.
Sculpture and Decorative Arts
This section includes over 1,000 sculptures and various decorative art pieces such as arms, armor, and historical artifacts, complementing the museum's painting collection.
Contact
Phone: 913 30 28 00