Museo Sorolla (Sorolla Museum), Madrid (must see)

This hidden gem in Madrid is a unique blend of museum and art gallery, dedicated to honoring the life and artistic journey of Valencian impressionist painter Joaquín Sorolla. Nestled within his former studio-mansion, constructed in 1910, the museum offers a serene and tranquil escape from the bustling city. Step into the cool and shaded Andalusian-style courtyard and gardens designed by Sorolla himself, adorned with statues, fountains, lush greenery, and fragrant fruit trees.

While Sorolla is renowned for his brilliant Mediterranean beach scenes, this museum showcases the full range of his artistic evolution. Explore his tender portraiture and immerse yourself in a series of captivating works capturing the essence of people from diverse regions of Spain.

The ground floor has been meticulously preserved, providing an authentic glimpse into the artist's living and working spaces during his lifetime until his passing in 1923. Upstairs, the former sleeping quarters have been transformed into a gallery space. Here, you'll be captivated by Sorolla's impressionistic paintings that vividly depict sunlight, sea, vibrant colors, and the beauty of women and children.

Why You Should Visit:
Taking a trip through an artist's house and former studio can be a much more fulfilling experience than in a traditional museum.
You also get a glimpse of the passions of the family, through the objects they collected (most notably the pottery and sculptures).

Tip:
Take a moment to appreciate the very detailed gardens, a testament to Sorolla's artistic vision in collaboration with a landscape designer. You can enjoy the beauty of the gardens without even entering the museum itself.
Enhance your visit with the 'SOROLLA MUSEUM AR' app, an augmented reality experience that brings the artwork to life. Make sure to download it before your visit, especially if you have an iPhone.