Cerralbo Museum

The Cerralbo Museum in Madrid is a fascinating dive into the past, a unique opportunity to explore the aristocratic life of the 19th century through the collection and residence of Enrique de Aguilera y Gamboa, 17th Marquis of Cerralbo. Located on Calle Ventura Rodríguez, this palace-museum is a rare example of a historic residence that has preserved its original decoration intact, offering visitors an authentic and immersive experience. The Marquis of Cerralbo was an eclectic collector and passionate about archaeology, art, and history. At his death in 1922, he donated much of his archaeological collections to national museums, but kept the palace and art collections for the creation of a museum that could reflect his interests and lifestyle. In 1944, the residence was opened to the public as a museum, becoming one of the most fascinating and lesser-known cultural sites in Madrid. The museum houses a vast collection of artworks and decorative objects collected by the Marquis during his travels and research. Among these, there are paintings by renowned artists such as El Greco, Zurbarán, Tintoretto, Van Dyck, and Bronzino. The works are displayed in environments that preserve the original furnishings, offering a total immersion in the atmosphere of the time. Visitors can also admire an extraordinary collection of furniture, tapestries, French and English clocks from the 18th and 19th centuries, porcelain, jewelry, and armor, which testify to the Marquis’ refined taste and passion for collecting. The museum’s exhibition path is organized on multiple floors, each with a specific function. The main floor, intended for social life, includes the Grand Salon, a sumptuous hall decorated with tapestries and paintings, and the Ballroom, a ballroom used for receptions and parties. The grand staircase, with its spectacular wrought iron railing from the former Monastery of the Salesas Reales, is another element of great impact, symbolizing the social prestige of the Cerralbo family. The mezzanine floor, on the other hand, was dedicated to the daily life of the family and closest guests. Here you can find the Red Salon, used as the Marquis’ study, and the Yellow Salon, a private dining room. The small garden, recreated in 1995 according to the original design, offers a peaceful space where you can admire statues of Roman emperors, creating a classic-romantic atmosphere.