About the Museo Nacional del Prado
The Museo Nacional del Prado, opened in 1819, is one of the most important art institutions in the world and a symbol of Spanish cultural heritage. Its origins are linked to the Enlightenment and the Spanish monarchy’s desire to gather and preserve the royal collections. Over the centuries, the museum has brought together masterpieces ranging from the 12th to the 19th century, becoming a universal reference for European painting.
What to See During the Visit
With the audioguide, you can explore at your own pace one of the richest art collections in the world, featuring essential works by artists such as Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, Tiziano, Rubens, and El Bosco. Among its most iconic pieces are “Las Meninas” by Velázquez, “The Third of May 1808” by Goya, and “The Garden of Earthly Delights” by El Bosco. The galleries are organized by painting schools, helping visitors understand the evolution of European art and the historical context of each work.
“Painting is silent poetry; poetry is blind painting.” — Leonardo da Vinci
Curiosities
- The Museo del Prado houses one of the most important collections of Spanish painting in the world, especially by Velázquez and Goya.
- “Las Meninas” by Velázquez is one of the most analyzed works in art history due to its complex composition and perspective.
- The museum originally began as a Natural Sciences Cabinet before becoming one of the world’s most prestigious art galleries.