Municipal Printing Museum

The Museum of Municipal Printing-Arts of the Book in Madrid is a fascinating journey through time through the history of printing and graphic arts. Located on Calle de Concepción Jerónima, in the heart of the city, this museum is dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of the history of printing, books, and image reproduction techniques such as lithography and engraving. The origin of the museum dates back to the 19th century, when the old Municipal and Lithographic Typography was established. This place not only served for the production of official documents, but also became a reference point for the evolution of printing techniques. In 2011, the building was transformed into a museum, enriching the network of municipal museums in Madrid and offering visitors a complete overview of typographic art and its applications over the centuries. Inside the museum, visitors can admire a vast collection of historical printing machines, printing tools, and materials related to bookbinding. Among the most valuable pieces is a 17th-century printing press, a true mechanical gem that shows the functioning of early printing techniques. The collection also includes antique typewriters, lithography rollers, and engraving tools, offering a detailed insight into the different processes used for the production of books and images. The section dedicated to bookbinding is particularly fascinating, showing the evolution of binding techniques from the Middle Ages to the present day. Visitors can see examples of leather bindings, gold leaf decorations, and various styles of artistic binding that illustrate the skill and creativity of book artisans. An interesting anecdote concerns the printing of the first book in Madrid, which took place in 1499. This event marked the beginning of a new era for the city, which quickly became an important center for book production in Spain. The museum’s permanent exhibition includes a replica of this first printed book, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past. The museum building itself is an example of historical architecture that deserves attention. Originally built as a municipal typography, the building has retained many of its original elements, such as large windows and wrought iron structures, which give a unique and authentic atmosphere to the exhibition spaces. The restoration of the building has integrated modern technologies to improve accessibility and visitor experience, while preserving the historical character of the structure.