The Palacio de Cristal in Madrid is a historic 18th-century building with unique architecture that serves as a conservatory with stunning iron, brick and glass construction and design. Upon its construction in the 1880s, its curved architecture, though not unheard of, was unusual and cutting-edge. It was one of the most important venues for the Philippine Exposition of 1887. Though originally designed to be allowed to be moved and rebuilt on another site, it has remained on its original site.
Today, the Palacio de Cristal is primarily used for art exhibits. Thousands tour the building every year.
Palacio de Cristal in Madrid - one of the highlights of 15 Best Things to Do in Madrid (Read all about Madrid here)
A brief history of Palacio de Cristal in Madrid
Palacio de Cristal in Madrid is one of the buildings of the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía (MNCARS). It runs through one of Madrid's largest city parks and was conceived as a greenhouse for the Philippine Exhibition when the islands were still a Spanish colony. The design made innovative use of iron and glass and paid homage to the history of 19th-century colonialism.
Following the Exposition of 1887, the city debated what to do with the building. For a while, it was the home of the National Exhibition of Fine Arts. Since 1990, it has housed rotating contemporary art installations.
What else is good to know about Palacio de Cristal in Madrid?
Palacio de Cristal in Madrid is one of four buildings in the MNCARS, so access to this building requires museum access. Public parking is available, and you can also access the conservatory by bicycle, train, bus or metro. Cloakroom service is available on-site. The museum is also dedicated to providing complete accessibility to people with disabilities.
The museum can be accessed via a self-guided tour or a guided tour. Tickets are available online or at the box office. After visiting the Palacio, you can grab a souvenir at the book or gift shops or a bite at one of the 2 on-site restaurants.
Palacio de Cristal in Madrid
Ubicación: P.º de Cuba, 4, 28009 Madrid, Spain
Horarios: Daily from 10 am to 10 pm
Teléfono: +34 917 74 10 00
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