An art lover’s guide to Madrid

Immerse yourself in Joaquín Sorolla’s masterful work, a symphony of senses that conjures the sights, sounds and scents of the sea. It transports us to Cabañal beach, a place that became the Valencian painter’s open-air studio during the summer of 1909. It was here that he painted Walk along the Seashore, capturing his wife, Clotilde, and his eldest daughter, Elena. Yet, the true star in the scene is the subtle light that bathes this idyllic setting. The Sorolla Museum in Madrid, which was once the artist’s residence and houses more than 2,200 of his catalogued works, is an unmissable destination offering a connection to Sorolla’s artistic legacy.

Did you know? Although beach scenes are among Joaquín’s favourite themes, this particular work stands apart from his other pieces. While he frequently explored the relationship between man and nature, this genre, known as the ‘elegant walk’, showcases a new kind of leisure embraced by the Spanish aristocracy in the early twentieth century.

The mystery surrounding The Lady of Elche has remained a focal point for many debates. Whether an aristocrat or a deity, a bust or a full-body statue, her identity and authorship is still a mystery. Nevertheless, the most renowned sculpture of Ancient Spain, she captivates our collective imagination with her commanding presence and distinctive jewellery. Unearthed in 1897 by a group of workers on a farm near Elche – the ancient city of Ilici – this remarkable find owes its discovery not only to chance but also to the efforts of Dr Manuel Campello, a humanist and amateur archaeologist. This singular revelation catapulted Iberian art onto the international stage.

Did you know? Before becoming part of the National Archaeological Museum of Madrid, The Lady of Elche (originally known as The Mora Queen) was initially showcased in the Louvre Museum until 1941. During this period, the bust could be admired from the balcony of its discoverer's estate.

In a narrative reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet, Giovanna degli Albizzi, the focus of this work, defied social norms by marrying Lorenzo Tornabuoni of the rival Medici family. The painting not only highlights the enchanting presence of the young woman deeply in love – featuring idealised proportions and the expressionless face of the Florentine 'Quattrocento' – but also showcases her beautiful gamurra (women’s Renaissance dress) and a captivating coral necklace. This piece is part of 'Art Meets Fashion,' an exhibition at the museum and nearby Las Rozas Village, offering a fascinating journey through this piece and 14 others. The collection traces the evolution of fashion from the fourteenth century to the present, culminating with a visit to the Village.

Did you know?
In 1488, the star of the Thyssen Museum's work unfortunately passed away at the tender age of nineteen, coinciding with the year of the painting’s creation.

The newspaper photographs capturing the 1937 bombing in the Biscayan town of Guernica served as Picasso's starting point in creating this twentieth century icon. While his intention wasn’t to depict a specific war scene, he aimed to convey the horror caused by the Spanish Civil War, sounding a cautionary tale about the future stages of the Second World War. As Picasso asserted, “no, painting is not made to decorate rooms. It is an offensive and defensive instrument of war against the enemy.”

Did you know?
The painting, at the Reina Sofía Museum, recognises twelve elements, including six human beings and three animals. Each element carries profound symbolism and a rich history that deserves to be well-known.

The portrait of the Infanta Margarita (Margaret Theresa of Spain), portrays her royal parents and serves as the artist’s self-portrait. It stands as Velázquez's masterpiece, proudly displayed as the flagship of the Prado Museum. Rather than a conventional painting, this masterpiece resembles a frozen frame from a cinematic narrative, leading the viewer to question: What are the nun and the guard discussing? Who are Infanta Margarita and Velázquez looking at? Perhaps the mirror at the study’s end holds a clue, as King Philip IV and Queen Mariana of Austria are shown in the reflection. The characters, breaking the fourth wall, fix their eyes on the viewer, making us participants – and, potentially, the focus – within the scene.

Did you know?
In the artwork, you can observe an almost-kneeling girl presenting a bucaro on a silver tray to the Infanta. Interestingly, these vessels were not solely intended for drinking. During that era, physicians recommended ‘bucarophagia’ – the ingestion of pieces of cooked clay – as a means to achieve fair, pearly skin.

What day are Madrid museums free? ?

While it’s true that many museums in Madrid offer free admission on specific days or for certain age groups, we recommend checking the individual museum websites for up-to-date information.

How many art museums are there in Madrid?

Madrid boasts around 90 museums, with three globally renowned institutions forming the ‘golden triangle’ of arts and culture: the Museo Nacional del Prado, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía and the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza.

Which museums in Madrid are child-friendly?

Madrid provides many learning opportunities for children, with the educaTHYSSEN programme at the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum being a standout choice. The programme offers workshop visits designed for the whole family, providing an interactive way to explore art through play. Additionally, online resources are available, allowing you to enjoy the museum at your own pace and convenience.