Royal Collections Gallery
c/ Bailén s/n, 28013, Madrid, ES
Embark on an extraordinary journey through five centuries of art and culture at the Royal Collections Gallery, housed in a remarkable building. This national treasure is now open to the public, showcasing a curated selection of exquisite paintings, sculptures, arms, tapestries, decorative arts, and coaches. Among its masterpieces are works by renowned artists such as El Greco, Caravaggio, Velázquez, Goya, Bernini, Kolman Helmschmid, and Canops.
Designed by Tuñón and Mansilla, the building has garnered ten architecture awards for its understated elegance and simplicity, which perfectly complement the extraordinary contents within. Serving as an open window to all the royal sites managed by Patrimonio Nacional— including El Escorial, Aranjuez, La Granja, Yuste, and Descalzas Reales— the gallery also highlights our ongoing efforts in researching, restoring, preserving, and promoting Spain’s rich heritage.
Your journey begins on the top floor and descends through ramps adorned with informative videos providing valuable context.
Level -1 Dedicated to the Habsburgs, traces the origins of royal collecting from the Trastámara dynasty to the reign of Philip II, a great patron of the arts and mastermind behind iconic projects like El Escorial. Here, visitors can also glimpse remnants of Madrid’s ninth-century city wall.
Level -2 Delves into Bourbon, themes such as music, royal factories, and the construction of Madrid and La Granja palaces. The itinerary concludes by elucidating Patrimonio Nacional’s pivotal role as custodian of this vast cultural legacy.
Level -3 Offers a dynamic exhibition space, featuring The Cube—a captivating immersive experience showcasing the architectural and natural wonders under Patrimonio Nacional’s stewardship. Additionally, the spacious temporary exhibition gallery hosts a diverse array of captivating shows.
