Must See
Guernica — Picasso (1937)
Building
Former 18th c. hospital
Opened
1992
Free Entry
Mon & Wed–Sat 7–9 PM
Guernica Size
3.49 × 7.76 m
This building was used as a hospital until 1983. It was transformed into a museum and named after Sofia, the queen of Spain. The Reina Sofía Museum is renowned for its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
Highlight: Picasso’s “Guernica”
One of the most significant works housed in the museum is Picasso’s “Guernica.” This masterpiece depicts the bombing of the town of Guernica by Nazi Germany’s airplanes in 1937 during the Spanish Civil War. “Guernica” is a powerful anti-war statement and one of Picasso’s most famous works.
Other Notable Features
- Library: The museum boasts a free library with hundreds of books on art and 3,500 audio recordings, providing a rich resource for art enthusiasts and researchers.
- Sculpture: One notable piece is Roy Lichtenstein’s sculpture “Brushstroke,” adding to the museum’s diverse collection.
Visiting Information
- Entrance Fee: 10 euros.
- Free Entry Hours:
- Sundays from 13:30 to 19:00.
- Daily from 19:00 to 21:00.
Nearby Places To
While visiting the Reina Sofía Museum, you might also be interested in exploring:
- Prado Museum: Another iconic museum in Madrid, housing a vast collection of European art from the 12th to the early 20th century.
- Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum: Complements the collections of the Prado and Reina Sofía with works from the Italian Renaissance to Pop Art.
- Retiro Park: A large and beautiful park nearby, perfect for a relaxing stroll after exploring the museums.
“This building was used as a hospital until 1983. It was transformed into a museum and named after Sofia, the queen of Spain.”
Müge Ayma
