The Prado Museum features one of the world’s finest collections of European art. The collection is made up of pictures made between the 12th century all the way up until the early 19th century. The collection is based on the former Spanish Royal Collection. This museum is one of the best art museums in the world, and it is one of the most popular sites in all of Madrid.
The name “Prado” comes from the Spanish word for “meadow.” Before the museum was built, the area where it stands was a meadow outside the city. This is why it’s called the Prado Museum.
Today, the Prado is one of the most important art museums in the world, known for its masterpieces by artists like Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Visitors come from all over to see its amazing collection and learn about the history of European art.
Prado Museum
Calle Ruiz de Alarcón 23, Madrid 28014
Temporary exhibitions in the Prado Museum
May 2024
The Lost Caravaggio: Ecce Homo – an exhibition.
How can I travel to the museum?
The Prado Museum is located in central Madrid on Paseo del Prado. It is in a prime area close to several other major sights and attractions. Nearby, you will find fantastic museums and locations such as the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum, the Retiro Park, Plaza de Cibeles, and Puerta del Sol. Due to its central location, you can easily combine a visit to the museum with other awesome programs in Madrid in a single day.
The best way to get to the museum is on foot (as you will see a lot while walking), or by using the metro. You can use metro line number two and travel to the stop “Banco de España.” From there you should calculate with a 10-minute walk before you reach the entrance to the museum.