Museo Lázaro Galdiano in Madrid is a unique art museum that features the collection of Jose Lázaro Galdiano, a Spanish financier and art collector. At the time of his death, Lázaro Galdiano owned one of the largest and most significant art collections in Spain, numbering around 12,600 pieces. Much of the collection contains works from Old Masters and the romantic period.
The museum is smaller and more intimate than other notable museums in Madrid, making it an ideal choice for a morning or afternoon of sightseeing. You can expect to spend a few hours. Museo Lázaro Galdiano in Madrid is a must-visit for arts and cultural enthusiasts.
Museo Lázaro Galdiano in Madrid - one of the highlights of 10 Best Museums in Madrid and 10 Things to Do Off the Beaten Track in Madrid (Read all about Madrid here)
photo by Luis García (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified
What are the highlights of Museo Lázaro Galdiano in Madrid?
Museo Lázaro Galdiano houses an expansive collection of works spanning the prehistoric period to the 19th century. Much of the collection is Iberian and features numismatics, jewelry, bronzes, silver, ceramic and carved ivory. You could also see Visigothic works and objects from centres of medieval artistry, such as Limoges.
The paintings are a highlight in the museum. You can see rare works from artists like Hieronymus Bosch, Francisco de Goya, Luis Paret, El Greco and Erasmus Quellinus II. The building itself has respected works as well, such as elaborate baroque ceilings commissioned by the collector himself.
photo by rowanwindwhistler (CC BY-SA 2.0) modified
What else is good to know about Museo Lázaro Galdiano in Madrid?
Museo Lázaro Galdiano not only holds the collector’s prized paintings and decorative arts, but it contains his book collection as well. The research library is only open to researchers, but temporary exhibitions showcase notable pieces like medieval manuscripts and letters written by Lope de Vega. Be sure to check the schedule for your trip.
The museum is affiliated with the 5-museum pass that includes Romanticism, Decorative Arts, Sorolla, and Cerralbo. The pass is valid for all 5 museums for a period of 10 days. Guided tours are available and don’t require advance booking unless you’re planning a large tour group.
photo by Luis García (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified
Museo Lázaro Galdiano in Madrid
Location: C. Serrano, 122, 28006 Madrid, Spain
Open: Tuesday–Sunday from 9.30 am to 3 pm (closed on Mondays)
Phone: +34 915 61 60 84
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