It was founded by Queen Elizabeth II, with the aim of preserving Spain's past. Its route goes from the Altamira caves, of which there is a reproduction, through the Iberians and Egyptians, reaching the Renaissance and touching on decorative arts until the 19th century. We will find works from all the cultures that have existed in our territory.
Located next to the National Library, it was born with the idea of exposing archaeological, ethnographic, and decorative arts finds scattered in different institutions. The permanent exhibition covers a historical tour of Spain, from Prehistory to the 19th century. It has excellent collections of all kinds, such as sarcophagi, Egyptian mummies; decorative arts from the Hispano-Roman sphere; Arab archeology or Mudejar ashlar masonry and ceramics, among others. It has a library specialized in scientific publications on art, history, archeology and museology. One of the most admired treasures is the Lady of Elche, an Iberian work that surprises with the proportion and balance of her face, which indicate a strong influence of Greek art. The six crowns of the incredible Treasure of Guarrazar, the most extraordinary example of Visigothic goldsmithing. The Statue of Livia and the Lady of Baza are among many other works that stand out
Tuesday to Saturday: 09:30 hrs – 20:00 hrs
Sundays and holidays: 09:30 hrs – 15:00 hrs
Reduced hours: from 10:00 hrs – 2:00 p.m. January 6, December 24 and 31
Puerta de Alcalá
Cibeles Square
Naval Museum
Circle of fine arts
Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum