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As the capital city of Spain, Madrid is considered to be a cultural center while also boasting the liveliest nightlife in all of Europe. Throughout the city, visitors find medieval architecture, monolithic cathedrals and museums housing artifacts and art work from around the world. One could easily spend weeks in Madrid and still not cover all the notable museums so here's a list of the most notable of all the Madrid museums:
El Museo del Prado
Since 1819, El Prado has housed artwork from some of the most notable artists in the world and is considered to be the largest art gallery in the world. With over 1,000 paintings and several thousand other drawings, prints, sculptures and other pieces of art, el Prado acts as a Mecca for art lovers worldwide. Notable artists whose work you'll find here include Rafael, Rembrandt, Bartolome Bermejo, El Greco, Hans Memling, Diego Velazquez and many, many more. The most notable pieces of artwork include Las Meninas (Velazquez), Decent of Christ from the Cross (Weyden) and The Annuntiation (Angelico).
El Prado is open 6 days per week while remaining closed on Mondays. Tickets are fairly cheap (around $10 for adults) or free (weeknights from 6-8 and Sunday from 5-8). For about $50 per year, a membership can be purchased allowing unlimited access to the museum. Group rates and tour guides are also available for an extra fee.
National Archeology Museum
There's no better way to learn about the archeological history of Spain than with a visit to Museo Arqueologico Nacional. The main collections which can be found in the museum include Prehistory, Settlers, Egypt, Greek and Rome, Modern Age and Coins & Medals. Additionally, the National Library is part of the museum.
The National Archeology Museum is open from 9:30-8:00 Tuesday-Saturday and on Sunday from 9:30-3:00 and is closed on Mondays. Currently, there is no charge to access the museum and weekdays are the best time to avoid the crowds. Group tours are also available for an extra fee.
There is no doubt that the many other museums, galleries and attractions are worthwhile visiting points on any trip to Madrid. However, if your time and short and you want the most bang for your buck, consider El Museo del Prado and the National Archeology Museum as your first choices. Within these two museums, you'll be exposed to highlights of the artwork and history of Spain and from around the world.
Enid Glasgow is a travel writer who enjoys luxury travel. When visiting Spain, she stays at chic Madrid hotels.
