A Spanish Treasure: The National Museum of Decorative Arts

Haven't heard of the National Museum of Decorative Arts? In today's post, we'll fill you in on the treasures it holds. You'll definitely want to make a trip after. You'll find the inspiration to decorate your own home.
A Spanish Treasure: The National Museum of Decorative Arts

Last update: 14 March, 2019

The National Museum of Decorative Arts is a must-see destination for lovers of art and, especially, decor. One visit will fill you with the inspiration you need to decorate your home. It’s also a perfect place to learn about art history. Going to Madrid and visiting this museum is like going back in time, exploring the different eras.

As if that wasn’t enough, The National Museum of Decorative Arts boasts five historic pieces that are true works of art. Below, we’ll explain everything you need to know if you’re interested in making a trip to this wonderful museum. If you go, you’ll definitely go back for more.

Location and prices

The National Museum of Decorative Arts is located in the Spanish capital, Madrid. Its exact address is 12 calle Montalbán (between the Retiro Park and Cibeles Fountain). It’s right in the center of the city and easy to find. If you’re interested in paying a visit, the visiting hours are:

  • Tuesday to Saturday: 9:30 am to 3:00 pm
  • Sunday and holidays: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
  • Afternoons: Thursday, 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm

As for the prices, general admission is 3 euros. However, some groups can get a discount. Also, keep in mind that the museum also offers free admission on certain occasions. So, the location and admission fees are definitely not an excuse to miss out on this gem.

If you need more information, please refer to this website.

What will you find in the National Museum of Decorative Arts?

The National Museum of Decorative Arts is the perfect place to learn about and immerse yourself in decoration. It’s also the perfect place to find inspiration for your own home. The massive building’s 5 floors depict different time periods. By viewing the 7000 pieces offered by the museum, viewers can travel back in time to past settings.

decorative arts 1

On the first and second floor, visitors can find the museum’s latest displays. Both floors walk through the 1900s to the present time, spreading artifacts out through different rooms. This section of the museum also features a strong social and contemporary component.

Moving on to the third floor, visitors start going back in time. Suddenly, just moments after appreciating the most current works, museum-goers find themselves in the 1600s. The museum recreates several rooms to give visitors an idea of what homes were like during this era. Fabrics and ceramics are the main items on this floor of the museum.

The fourth floor is more refined, offering more pieces for viewing pleasure in porcelain. It’s the most luxurious floor as it’s inspired by Bourbon decor as well as the influences from France and England.

Finally, there’s the fifth floor. It’s the last floor, but certainly not the least interesting. The last floor focuses on the decor of the second half of the 17oo’s and the beginning of the 1800’s. It features recreations of the bedrooms and kitchens of higher-class homes. The tiles on display here are incredible.

Temporary exhibits

The National Museum of Decorative Arts also offers temporary exhibits. They’re the perfect addition to the museum’s impressive collection. There’s almost always a temporary exhibit open that’s of high interest on both a national and international level. Some of the former expositions include the following:

  • Manolo Blahnik: The Art of Shoes
  • Goldwork and Contemporary Pieces
  • Taiwanese Dress
  • Contemporary Ceramics
  • Objects from Finland
  • German Luxury in Spain during the Modern Age

As you can see, there are exhibits for every interest. They’re the perfect way to admire unique pieces that hold international importance. We highly recommend keeping an eye on their temporary exhibits!