Palace of Villahermosa

The Palace of Villahermosa is a neoclassical building on Paseo del Prado featuring a symmetrical layout with ornately carved stone facades and classical proportions. Its interior spans multiple levels with dedicated exhibition spaces designed to showcase international art collections.

The building was attacked during the 1808 Peninsular War when French forces positioned artillery and removed valuables from its rooms. The Duchess was forced to abandon the residence as fighting swept through the city.

From 1839 onward, the building served as home to the Artistic and Literary Lyceum, where composers and singers performed and shaped Madrid's cultural scene. This role made it a gathering place for artists and thinkers during the 1800s.

The building offers access through multiple entrances and features elevators and staircases to navigate the various floors. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and allow ample time to explore the different exhibition areas at their own pace.

The building underwent an unusual transformation, first serving as a bank before architect Rafael Moneo redesigned it in 1992 for its current role. This renovation preserved its original architectural elegance while adapting it to modern museum functions.

Location: Madrid

Inception: 1805

Architects: Antonio López Aguado, Rafael Moneo

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture

Part of: Paseo del Prado and Buen Retiro, a landscape of Arts and Sciences

Address: Paseo del Prado, 8 - 28014 Madrid

GPS coordinates: 40.41569,-3.69516

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:46