Madrid History Museum

The Museum of History of Madrid is a fascinating place that tells the historical and cultural evolution of the Spanish capital from the moment it became the capital in 1561 until the early 20th century. Located on Calle de Fuencarral, in the heart of Madrid, the museum is housed in the former Hospital of San Fernando, an imposing Baroque building designed by architect Pedro de Ribera in 1726. Founded in 1929 as the Municipal Museum, the museum has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years. Its current configuration is the result of a major restoration completed in 2014, which made the museum more accessible and functional, while still maintaining the historical charm of the building. The museum was renamed the Museum of History of Madrid in 2007 to better reflect its role and mission of documenting the city’s history. The museum’s exhibition path is divided into three main sections, each covering a specific period of Madrid’s history. The first section, “Madrid, Villa, Court and capital of two worlds,” explores the period from the 16th to the 18th century, when Madrid became the capital of Spain. This section provides an overview of urban expansion and the political and social transformations that characterized the first two centuries of Madrid as the capital. Among the exhibited pieces are paintings, maps, and models that illustrate the city’s growth. The second section, “Madrid, Enlightened center of power,” focuses on the 18th century until the War of Independence. This period was marked by the Enlightenment and Bourbon reforms, which introduced significant changes in the administration and urban planning of the city. The works exhibited in this section include royal portraits, historical documents, and objects that reflect the influence of Enlightenment culture on Madrid. The third section, “Madrid, The dream of a new city,” covers the 19th century until the early 20th century, a period of great industrial and social transformations. This section explores how Madrid modernized and industrialized, facing challenges such as urban expansion and demographic changes. Among the most significant pieces are historical photographs, architectural models, and everyday objects that tell the story of life in 19th-century Madrid. One of the highlights of the museum is the model of Madrid made by León Gil de Palacio in 1830, a detailed representation of the city that offers a valuable insight into what Madrid looked like in the early 19th century. Another prominent piece is Francisco de Goya’s work “Alegoría de la Villa de Madrid,” a painting that celebrates the importance of Madrid as the capital and its central role in Spanish history. The museum building itself is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture, with an elaborate and decorated facade that immediately catches the attention of passersby. The 2014 restoration preserved these historical elements, while also integrating modern technologies to enhance the visitor experience.