Reina Sofia Museum

The Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, commonly known as Museo Reina Sofía, is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and culture lovers in Madrid. Located in the heart of the city, the museum is housed in the historic General Hospital of Madrid, a stunning neoclassical building dating back to the 18th century. The hospital was originally designed by renowned architect José de Hermosilla and later completed by Francesco Sabatini, whose name now graces the Sabatini building within the museum complex. Since its inauguration in 1992, the Reina Sofía Museum has become a beacon of contemporary and 20th-century art, showcasing a diverse and impressive collection of works by some of Spain's most celebrated artists.

One of the highlights of the museum's permanent collection is the extensive representation of iconic Spanish artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Joan Miró. Visitors can marvel at masterpieces by these artistic giants, including Picasso's groundbreaking cubist works, Dalí's surrealistic creations, and Miró's vibrant and imaginative paintings. The museum also boasts an exceptional collection of surrealist art, featuring works by Francis Picabia, René Magritte, Óscar Domínguez, and Yves Tanguy, among others. Additionally, the Reina Sofía Museum houses a remarkable selection of cubist art, with contributions from artists like Juan Gris, Georges Braque, and Fernand Léger, showcasing the evolution and diversity of this influential art movement.

In addition to its impressive collection of Spanish and international artists, the Reina Sofía Museum is home to a significant number of expressionist works by artists such as Francis Bacon and Antonio Saura. These powerful and emotive pieces offer visitors a glimpse into the complex and often turbulent emotions that inspired these artists. The museum's commitment to showcasing a wide range of artistic styles and movements makes it a dynamic and engaging cultural institution that appeals to a diverse audience.

As visitors explore the halls of the Reina Sofía Museum, they will encounter a rich tapestry of artistic expression that reflects the evolution of modern and contemporary art. From the bold experimentation of the cubists to the dreamlike landscapes of the surrealists, each gallery offers a unique and immersive experience that invites viewers to contemplate the power and beauty of artistic creation. Whether you are a seasoned art aficionado or a curious traveler seeking inspiration, a visit to the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía promises to be a memorable and enriching journey through the vibrant world of 20th-century art.

The number of visitors has been increasing progressively until it has become the most visited museum in Spain and one of the most visited in the world. The number of visits in 2016 was 3,646,598, surpassing the MOMA and the Prado.
It has excellent collections of Juan Gris, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró, four Spanish artists who are among the most important of the 20th century and whose works constitute the great strength of the museum.