Naval Museum, Maritime heritage museum in Retiro, Madrid, Spain.
The Naval Museum in Retiro displays ship models, navigation tools, historical maps, and maritime objects across several exhibition halls throughout the building. The collection spans different periods of Spain's seafaring past and naval developments.
The institution was created by royal order in 1792 and first opened to visitors in 1843 after being established for official use. It relocated several times before taking its current place along Paseo del Prado.
The museum reflects Spain's deep connection to the sea and how maritime exploration shaped the nation's identity. You can see how sailing and naval power were central to Spanish life and expansion over centuries.
The museum is open several days per week, and you can walk through the exhibits at your own pace or join a guided tour. It's best to plan enough time for a comfortable visit and check which areas are currently accessible.
The museum holds the Juan de la Cosa map, the oldest surviving map showing the American continent, created in 1500. This document is a remarkable record of early European exploration and mapmaking.
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