Museum of Navarra
Navarra, Comunidad Foral de
The Museum of Navarra, located in Pamplona, Spain, is a prominent provincial art museum dedicated to preserving and exhibiting the cultural heritage of Navarre. Housed in the former 16th-century hospital of Nuestra Señora de la Misericordia, the museum was established in 1956 and features a unique Renaissance façade and adjacent chapel. Its extensive collection spans from prehistoric artifacts, such as the Mapa de Abauntz engraving, to Roman mosaics like the Triumph of Bacchus, and includes Romanesque capitals and murals from historic Navarrese churches. The museum also houses notable religious art, Gothic murals by Juan Oliver, and masterpieces by renowned artists including Goya and Luis de Morales. The collection is displayed chronologically across six floors, offering visitors a comprehensive journey through Navarre's artistic and historical evolution. Modern renovations have enhanced exhibition spaces and visitor facilities, making it a cultural hub that celebrates regional identity and artistic achievement.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to plan their visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and benefit from a more tranquil experience. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. The museum offers discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Checking the museum's official website for current opening hours and special exhibitions can enhance the visit. Guided tours may be available and can enrich understanding of the collections and the building's history.
Interesting facts
- •The museum is located in a former 16th-century hospital, preserving its Renaissance façade, the only example of civil Renaissance architecture in Pamplona.
- •It houses the Mapa de Abauntz, a prehistoric engraving with geographic signs, one of the oldest artifacts in the collection.
- •The Triumph of Bacchus mosaic is from the ancient Roman town of Andelos near Mendigorría, illustrating Roman influence in Navarre.
- •The Leyre Casket, an ivory Mozarabic chest dating to 1004/5, is a highlight of the museum's medieval collection.
- •The museum displays Gothic murals by Juan Oliver from the Cathedral of Pamplona's refectory.
- •Works by Francisco Camilo, Luis de Morales, and Goya are part of the permanent collection, representing key figures in Spanish art history.
History
The Museum of Navarra originated from a provincial commission formed in 1844 to protect and collect the region's artistic heritage.
Initially, artifacts were displayed in the Cámara de los Comptos from 1910.
The museum was officially established in 1956 within the former hospital of Nuestra Señora de la Misericordia, a Renaissance building dating back to the 16th century.
The hospital was vacated in 1932, and after several renovations, including a major modernization in 1986, the museum reorganized its collections chronologically and expanded visitor services.
The Renaissance façade and chapel remain preserved as significant architectural elements, symbolizing the museum's blend of history and art.
Place Guide
Renaissance Façade1556
The museum's main entrance features a Renaissance façade dating to 1556, designed by Juan de Villarreal and Martín de Azcárate. It is the only example of civil Renaissance architecture in Pamplona, modeled after a classical triumphal arch with rich Plateresque ornamentation.
Chapel of Nuestra Señora de la Misericordia1547-1550
An adjacent chapel built between 1547 and 1550 by Juan de Ancheta, blending Gothic and Renaissance styles. The chapel now serves as an auditorium and exhibition space within the museum complex.
Prehistoric CollectionPrehistoric period
Located in a dedicated underground room, this collection includes the Mapa de Abauntz, a prehistoric engraved block with geographic signs, representing some of the earliest human artistic expression in Navarre.
Roman Mosaics1st century
Displayed on the ground floor, these include the Triumph of Bacchus mosaic from the Roman town of Andelos, showcasing Roman artistic influence in the region.
Romanesque Murals and CapitalsRomanesque period (11th-13th centuries)
The museum preserves murals from San Martín in Artaíz, San Pedro de Olite, San Saturnino in Artajona, and Gallipienzo, along with Romanesque capitals from the old Pamplona cathedral, illustrating medieval religious art and architecture.
Gothic Murals by Juan Oliver1330
A series of 14th-century murals originally from the refectory of Pamplona Cathedral, attributed to the artist Juan Oliver, depicting religious themes with Gothic stylistic elements.
Paintings by Goya and Contemporaries18th-19th centuries
The museum features works by Francisco de Goya and other notable artists such as Luis de Morales and Francisco Camilo, highlighting significant periods in Spanish art history.
Contact
Phone: 848 42 64 92
