5 secrets about 5 museums in Madrid

By the end of the 19th century, the Prado was almost abandoned and bonfires were lit inside by the workers. Mariano de Cavia became so desperate about the state of the building that he published a fake news item titled ‘Fire at the Prado Museum!!’. People were so moved that the government had no choice but to take action.

A reinterpretation of a 19th-century tearoom, the courtyard patio has the perfect combination of jazz and music to chill out to at the right sound level, creating an inviting atmosphere to read or have a chat over delicious pastries. With plants, trees and a central fountain, it’s the ideal place to escape from Madrid’s summer heat.

A fantastic option for breakfast or a coffee. The terrace in the beautiful garden of the 18th-century Sabatini building is surrounded by majestic trees, fountains and sculptures from the museum’s collection. It is the perfect place to start or end your visit to the museum.

This modern museum was built in 2014 on the remains of the very first Mahou brewery, the most popular and oldest beer brand of Madrid. The new building is a fascinating architectural exercise by studio Aranguren & Gallegos. A 4-storey cube with two subterranean floors where geometry and natural light are combined to create a magnificent space.

Sorolla was one of the most sought out paintors of his time, especially in American high society. In 1909, Louis Comfort Tiffany, the son of the famous jeweller, bought various paintings and commissioned a portrait from him. The admiration was mutual, Sorolla bought three lamps from the Tiffany Glass Company that are still on display in his museum house today.