There are many wonderful museums to enjoy on a trip to Madrid. But there is one that few know about because it isn’t like the others – The one we are talking about here is the Sorolla Museum; his particular museum is unlike any other museum Madrid. This is because it is located in the house where the artist, Joaquin Sorolla use to live. It is also home to the studio where he created his work.
Unlike any other museum
Photo by Son of Groucho via VisualHunt
When it comes to culture you’ll find nothing as surprising as when you walk through the doors. The first art gallery upon entering the house is filled with works showing landscapes or beach scenes. Some of which are painted during daylight hours and others as the sunsets. The majority of the paintings here are of the beach in Valencia, which was the artist’s home town. But for many who visit this particular museum they fall in love with his studio. With its high ceilings and natural light this open space has managed to keep a lot of the atmosphere of when Sorolla worked in it. It is quite a magical space.
Also on display here is some of the original furniture owned by the Sorolla family that dates from the early part of the 19th century. It allows you to gain an insight in to what the culture Madrid was like at the time when the family lived here. After spending time viewing the art works and his studio you have the opportunity to view further works. Throughout the year a few exhibitions take place on the second floor. These are of other works created by the artist but aren’t owned by the Sorolla museum. Also up here other activities take place, these include children’s workshops and painting lessons. Yes, being able to enjoy the work of this artist is something beautiful. But if you have the time, spend it exploring his home and especially the garden. This is absolutely beautiful and provided him with a great deal of inspiration when it came to creating some of his work.
Photo by byb64 (en voyage jusqu’au 04-06) via VisualHunt
What is lovely about this particular museum is that the house, which was built between 1910 and 1911 remains the same. In fact no changes have been made to the home since the artists death back in 1923. This includes a canvas that he was working on just before he died. It remains on the easel along with the brushes beside it. Throughout the home you will see the various styles in which he painted are displayed. Along with many objects that he collected during his lifetime. Among his art collection are some fine examples of tiles and ceramics. The museum itself is open from Tuesday to Saturday between 9.30am and 8pm, and also open on Sundays and public holidays between 10am and 3pm. The cost to be able to explore this amazing attraction is just three euros. But students, those under 18 and pensioners pay less. Also, if you have purchased a Madrid Card, you can get in for free.
*Main photo by Son of Groucho via VisualHunt
