Art enthusiasts often travel the world to see the incredible pieces that both classic artists and modern artists have to offer. And if you’re looking for a country replete with astonishing art, then you need to add “visit Spain” to your to-do list!
But where to go to find some of the famous art in Spain?
Many skip art museums when visiting other countries. But if you do, you’re missing out on a set of truly unique and mesmerizing experiences.
If you’ve never been on an art-focused vacation before, then Spain is an incredible starting point.
Also Read: What is the Best Time to Visit Spain
Art in Spain: Spain’s Incredible Artists
Spain has been home to some of the greatest artists of all time. Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Francisco de Goya – and that’s just to name the really obvious names!
Wherever you go in Spain, you’re bound to be within reach of museums that showcase the incredible works of Picasso, Dalí, Goya, and many others.
Madrid, Barcelona, Figueres – they all present opportunities to lose yourself in the hypnotic works of the masters.
Even in small Spanish towns you will find art galleries and buildings designed by famous artists.
But if you want to focus on the most famous art in Spain you are best off visiting Spain’s main cities.
1. Famous Art in Spain at the Museo del Prado
The Museo del Prado in Madrid is one of the best examples of art in Spain. And it actually has some of the most famous works of non-Spanish painters as well. Masterpieces by Matisse, Monet, and Rembrandt can be found adorning its walls.
But, most notably, the Prado has the biggest collection of Francisco Goya’s paintings in the world.
Goya’s disturbing Black Paintings are all held here, despite these works having been painted directly onto the walls of Goya’s home.
Sections of his walls were removed after his death and transported to the Prado Museum, where they remain. Being able to see these things for yourself is not an experience to be missed!
Tip: if you are on a budget, the Prado Museum offers free entrance on Monday to Saturday from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. and on Sundays and holidays from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.
Only a short walk from the Prado you’ll find the Reina Sofía Museum, an art museum not to miss. The museum is home to a large collection of modern and contemporary Spanish art renowned around the world.
You’ll see works by Dalí, Miró, and Juan Gris, plus the museum’s masterpiece, Pablo Picasso’s Guernica.
2. Art in Spain’s Second City: Barcelona
If you visit Barcelona you’ll be rewarded with a plethora of incredible art.
The first place people think of is the Picasso Museum. While the works of most famous painters have been taken to museums across the world, Picasso’s work largely remains in his home country.
But the Picasso Museum isn’t the only place in Barcelona for art lovers to check out.
There’s also the Fundació Joan Miró, which features loads of modern art, and the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, which focuses on the Gothic works that developed in the 19th century.
Barcelona is definitely one of the best places to visit in Spain.
But, Barcelona isn’t the only place in the Catalonia province to feature the works of a famous master. If you want to see some truly mind-bending works of painting and architecture, then the Dalí Theater and Museum in Figueres is an essential visit.
Dalí designed the museum himself, so the architecture is filled with as many optical illusions as his paintings.
When building the place, he said that he wanted people who visited to have the sensation of “having had a theatrical dream”.
It’s also the home to the largest collection of his works. Dalí was so proud of the place that he wanted to be buried in a crypt below the theater stage. Which is actually what happened when he died.
Figueres is an easy day trip by train from Barcelona.
3. Art in Northern Spain at the Guggenheim Museum
If you have the opportunity to visit northern Spain, then don’t miss the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.
The museum houses prominent modern and contemporary works, but it’s the unique building, designed by Frank Gehry, that will first impress you.
The Guggenheim displays a collection of modern and contemporary art from the mid-twentieth century to the present day, in an absolutely unique setting.
You’ll be able to see Peggy Guggenheim’s personal collection with masterpieces ranging in style from Cubism and Surrealism to Abstract Expressionism.
Enjoy All the Famous Art in Spain
I spent 5 years living in Moraira, on Spain’s Costa Blanca, and am currently living in Valencia. And even after all this time, I feel I haven’t seen half of what this beautiful, diverse country has to offer.
Whether you are into art, architecture, good food, hiking, skiing, or prefer a relaxing beach vacation… Spain offers it all and I highly recommend visiting!
Also Read:
- Things to Know Before Traveling to Spain
- What to See & Do in Madrid – Tips From a Tour Guide
- Must-Do in Spain: Visit a Parador
- 5 Crazy Spanish Festivals You Have to Check Out!
- Christmas in Spain – the Traditions & How to Celebrate a Spanish Christmas
- Why You Should Visit Spain’s Costa Brava, Costa Dorada & Costa Verde