The Picasso Museum (Catalan: Museu Picasso) in Barcelona’s El Born district is one of the most popular museums in the city. More than 1 Million visitors per year come to see this museum with its outstanding collection of modern art.
Pablo Picasso nació en Málaga, en la provincia española de Andalucía. Dedicó 80 años de su vida al arte. Debido a este largo periodo productivo, no se le puede atribuir a un único movimiento artístico.
La relación entre Picasso y Barcelona comenzó cuando se trasladó a la ciudad con su padre a la edad de 14 años. Picasso llegó a Barcelona en 1894 y aquí creó sus primeras obras destacadas. De esta época son obras maestras como La Primera Comunión (1896) y Ciencia y Caridad (1897), expuestas en el Museo Picasso.
The collections at Picasso Museum are set up chronologically from his adolescence to Picasso’s final works:
- Málaga
- A Coruña
- Barcelona
- Málaga: summers of 1896 and 1897
- Madrid
- Horta de Sant Joan
- Barcelona: 1899–1900
- Paris: 1900–1901
- El periodo azul
- El periodo rosa
- Barcelona: 1917
- 1917–1957
- Las Meninas
- Grabador Picasso
- Picasso ceramista
During his time in Paris in the 1920s Pablo Picasso met with compatriots like Joan Miró and Salvador Dalí. The style of Cubism which was mainly developed by Picasso had a large influence on the young Salvador Dalí. Miró and Picasso even established a supportive friendship which can be seen in some of their works.
Historia del Museo Picasso
El legado de los siglos XV y XVI
La historia del Museo Picasso está profundamente arraigada en sus cimientos arquitectónicos. Construido inicialmente en el siglo XIII, el edificio que ahora alberga el museo fue propiedad de la prominente familia Gerona en el siglo XV.
El palacio, una maravilla arquitectónica, es testimonio del rico patrimonio cultural e histórico de Barcelona. Cuenta con un patio central y una fachada adornada con un relieve del siglo XVI que ilustra temas religiosos.
A lo largo de los siglos, sufrió varias reformas, sobre todo en el siglo XVIII, que reflejaron la evolución de los gustos y sensibilidades de sus habitantes.
Un tesoro de arte: Colecciones y donaciones
El Museu Picasso es famoso por su vasta y diversa colección, que lo convierte en un destino fundamental para los aficionados al arte de todo el mundo.
It boasts the largest collection of works from Picasso’s formative years, shedding light on his profound connection with Barcelona. With a staggering 4,250 pieces, the museum offers a comprehensive collection that traces Picasso’s artistic journey from Corunna, Malaga, Barcelona, to Madrid.
The museum’s extensive collection is complemented by an impressive array of ceramics, etchings, lithographs, and linocuts, generously donated by Picasso’s widow, Jacqueline.
Additionally, a significant portion of the museum’s collection came from Sabartés’ personal stash of 574 artworks. Over the years, the museum has benefitted from numerous donations, including 41 pieces from Jacqueline Roque and 117 engravings from the Louise Leiris Gallery.
One of the highlights of the museum is the unique display of Picasso’s personal interpretation of Velazquez’s Las Meninas, an unparalleled collection of 57 works, exclusively showcased together.
Una mirada al pasado palaciego
The museum’s location is as intriguing as the art it houses. Initially set in Palau Aguilar on Montcada Street, the museum has since expanded, incorporating other historical palaces into its domain.
Palau Aguilar, Palau del Baró de Castellet, and Palau Meca serve as the primary venues for the museum’s permanent collection. The Casa Mauri, with structures dating back to Roman times, offers visitors a journey through the annals of history, from the suburbs of ancient Barcino to the present.
Más que un museo: Actividades y merchandising
Para los que quieran sumergirse aún más, el Museo Picasso de Buitrago del Lozoya ofrece un sinfín de actividades y exposiciones temporales, organizadas por la Comunidad de Madrid.
These events provide a deeper understanding of Picasso’s life, his inspirations, and the impact of his art on contemporary culture.
Los visitantes también pueden llevarse a casa una parte de la experiencia del museo. La tienda del museo, aunque no es obligatoria, es un tesoro de libros, tarjetas y artículos con la marca del museo, como tazas y camisetas, perfectos para entusiastas del arte y coleccionistas.
Maximice su experiencia
Mejor época para visitar
- Fuera de horas punta: Las primeras horas de la mañana, justo después de la apertura del museo, o las últimas de la tarde, aproximadamente una hora antes del cierre, pueden proporcionar una experiencia más íntima. Los martes y miércoles suelen ser más tranquilos, por lo que se dispone de más espacio y tiempo para apreciar el arte.
- Consideraciones estacionales: La primavera (de abril a junio) y el otoño (de septiembre a noviembre) son ideales. El tiempo es agradable y puede disfrutar de las atracciones cercanas sin el calor del verano ni el frío del invierno. Además, en estos periodos suele haber menos turistas, lo que hace que su visita al museo sea más serena.
Accesibilidad
- Acceso para sillas de ruedas: All galleries and facilities have been adapted for wheelchair access. The museum also offers free wheelchair rental at the entrance, but it’s advisable to book in advance.
- Audioguías: These hand-held devices, available for a small fee, offer detailed commentary on selected artworks, the museum’s architecture, and Picasso’s life. They’re available in Spanish, Catalan, English, French, Italian, German, Russian, and Japanese.
Atracciones cercanas
- Distrito de El Born: Este vibrante barrio es una mezcla de lo antiguo y lo nuevo. Explore las estrechas calles medievales, relájese en las pintorescas plazas y deléitese con la auténtica cocina española.
- Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar: Built between 1329 and 1383, this basilica is a masterpiece of Catalan Gothic architecture. The rooftop offers panoramic views of the city.
Dining and Accommodation
- Local Cuisine: Try “pa amb tomàquet” (bread with tomato) or “crema catalana” (Catalan cream) at one of the nearby tapas bars. El Xampanyet, located close to the museum, is renowned for its tapas and cava.
- Hotels: Whether you’re looking for luxury at the Grand Hotel Central or budget-friendly options like the Chic & Basic Born Boutique Hotel, the area caters to all preferences.
Museum Etiquette
- Photography: While you can capture the museum’s architecture, taking photos of the artworks might be restricted. Always look for signs or ask museum staff.
- Dress Code: Comfort is key. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking and standing for extended periods. Carrying a light shawl or jacket can be handy in the air-conditioned sections.
Special Events and Workshops
- Art Workshops: Especially popular among younger visitors, these workshops offer hands-on experiences, from pottery making inspired by Picasso’s ceramics to sketching sessions.
- Temporary Exhibitions: These exhibitions often provide a fresh perspective on Picasso’s work, showcasing his lesser-known pieces or drawing parallels with contemporary art.
Tips for a Memorable Experience
- Visitas guiadas: These tours, often led by art historians or experts, delve deep into Picasso’s techniques, inspirations, and revolutionary contributions to modern art.
- Membership: With benefits like unlimited free entry, exclusive previews of temporary exhibitions, and discounts in the museum shop, a membership can be a worthwhile investment for art enthusiasts.
- Gift Shop: Beyond the usual souvenirs, the shop offers high-quality art reproductions, books on Picasso’s life and works, and unique artisanal products inspired by his art.
Planning Your Visit
For those looking to delve into the world of Picasso, a general admission ticket to the museum is priced at €12. This ticket grants access to both the permanent collection and the temporary exhibitions. Alternatively, art lovers can opt for a separate ticket solely for the temporary exhibition at €6.50.
Picasso Museum – Facts
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sundays from 10:00 to 20:00, closed on Mondays and 1st January, 1st May, 24th June, 25th and 26th December
How to Get to Museu Picasso?
By metro take the yellow line L3 to Jaume I. Walk down Calle de la Princessa for 200 metres. Turn right into Carrer de Montcada and after 50 metres you have reached Museu Picasso.
