The Museo del Romanticismo is a state-owned museum located in Madrid, Spain, dedicated to the artistic, social, and cultural life of the 19th century. Housed in the 18th-century Palace of the Marquis of Matallana, the museum features an extensive collection of paintings, furniture, decorative arts, and personal items that reflect the aesthetic and lifestyle of the Romantic period.
The collection was founded in 1924 following a donation by the Marquis of la Vega-Inclán. It provides a comprehensive look at the bourgeois lifestyle of the era, showcasing works by prominent artists such as Goya, Madrazo, and Esquivel, alongside period-accurate interiors that recreate the atmosphere of 19th-century Spanish society.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Brick, Stone, Wood, Stucco
- Civilization
- Spanish
- Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible
- Date(s)
- 1776
- Condition
- Well-preserved museum
- Original Function
- Aristocratic residence
- Key Figures
- Marquis of la Vega-Inclán, Francisco de Goya, Federico de Madrazo
Palace Origins
18th CenturyThe building was constructed in 1776 as the residence for the Marquis of Matallana. It serves as a prime example of the neoclassical residential architecture prevalent in Madrid during the late 18th century.
Foundation of the Museum
1924The museum was established by the Marquis of la Vega-Inclán, who donated his private collection to the Spanish state. The goal was to preserve the memory of the Romantic era and the cultural identity of the 19th century.
Modern Restoration
2001-2009The museum underwent a significant structural and museological renovation between 2001 and 2009 to modernize facilities, improve accessibility, and restore the original layout of the palace rooms.
Cultural Significance
The museum serves as a vital repository for the study of the Romantic movement in Spain, a period characterized by intense emotional expression and a shift toward individualistic artistic values. It offers a unique window into the domestic life of the Spanish bourgeoisie, bridging the gap between high art and everyday material culture.
Interpretive Notes
Scholarly debates and areas of uncertainty
Discussions often center on the definition of 'Romanticism' within the Spanish context, specifically how the movement differed from its counterparts in Northern Europe and the extent to which the museum's curated interiors represent an idealized versus an accurate historical reality.
Visiting Information
Entry Rules
Open Tuesday to Sunday. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online. Reduced entry fees apply for students, seniors, and large families. Free entry is available during specific weekend hours.
Best Times to Visit
Weekday mornings are generally quieter. The museum is particularly atmospheric during the autumn and winter months when the interior lighting highlights the period decor.
Photography
Non-commercial photography is permitted without flash or tripods. Professional photography requires prior authorization from the museum administration.
Nearby POIs
18 shownSources & Further Reading
- [1]Museo Nacional del Romanticismo: Guía de la colección — Ministerio de Cultura y Deporte. Gobierno de España (2010)View
- [2]The Romantic Movement in Spain — E. Allison Peers. Cambridge University Press (1940)
Key Facts
- Materials
- Brick, Stone, Wood, Stucco
- Civilization
- Spanish
- Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible