Museum of Jaén

Located in the heart of Jaén, Spain, the Museum of Jaén (Museo de Jaén) stands as a testament to the region's rich historical and artistic heritage. This cultural gem invites visitors to explore its extensive collections, which are housed in a stunning building that combines historical architecture with modern exhibition spaces.

The History of the Museum of Jaén

The origins of the Museum of Jaén date back to 1846 when it was initially established as the Museum of Painting within the Convent of the Company of Jesus. The artworks showcased in this early museum were primarily acquired through the Mendizábal Disentailment, a series of Spanish decrees in the 19th century that led to the expropriation and sale of church properties. In 1914, the museum was renamed the Provincial Museum of Fine Arts and relocated to the Palace of the Diputación de Jaén under the directorship of Alfredo Cazabán Laguna.

In 1920, a new chapter began for the museum when local politician José del Prado y Palacio championed the construction of a dedicated building on land acquired along the Paseo de la Estación. The architectural design was entrusted to Antonio Flórez Urdapilleta, who created a structure that blends regionalist features with elements of classical design. The museum's current form emerged in 1969 when it merged with the Archaeological Museum, founded in 1963, to become the Museum of Jaén. This merger brought together significant collections of art and archaeological artifacts under one roof.

The Building and Its Architecture

The Museum of Jaén's main building is an architectural marvel designed by Antonio Flórez. It presents a grand façade along the Paseo de la Estación, elevated on a horizontal platform accessible via two flights of stairs. The building's regionalist style, constructed from stone masonry, features a square layout with three levels and four corner towers. A small garden surrounds the building, adding to its charm.

One of the most striking features of the museum's façade is the incorporation of the historic entrance portal from the now-demolished Pósito de Labradores, crafted by Francisco del Castillo the Elder in 1548. Inside the museum, visitors can admire the Renaissance portal from the former Church of San Miguel, attributed to Andrés de Vandelvira. This portal now graces the museum's interior courtyard, which also houses the Iberian sculptural ensemble from the Cortijo del Pajarillo in Huelma.

The Collections

The Museum of Jaén boasts two main permanent sections: Archaeology and Fine Arts. The Archaeology section, located on the ground floor, comprises seven rooms and two mezzanines. Visitors can embark on a journey through the province's history, from prehistoric times to the Hispano-Muslim era, through an array of pottery, metalwork, sculptures, and jewelry. Highlights include a collection of Roman mosaics, a life-sized replica of the Toya burial chamber, several inscribed Roman tombstones, and the early Christian sarcophagus from Martos.

The Fine Arts section occupies the upper floor and consists of nine rooms. The first two rooms display works from the 13th to the 18th centuries, while the remaining rooms focus on the 19th and 20th centuries. The collection features a diverse range of artistic styles, with a particular emphasis on artists from the Jaén province. Notable artists represented include Manuel Ángeles Ortiz, Manuel Kayser Zapata, Fausto Olivares Palacios, José Nogué Massó, Antonio López García, Rafael Zabaleta Fuentes, and Federico Madrazo.

Additional Facilities

The museum complex includes two annex buildings designed by Luis Berges Roldán in 1965, reflecting the traditional architecture of Jaén. The western annex, facing Cristo Rey Street, serves as the administrative building, housing offices, laboratories, and storage areas. The northern annex hosts temporary exhibitions on its ground and first floors, while the basement is dedicated to the permanent exhibition of Iberian sculptures from Porcuna.

Visiting the Museum of Jaén

Access to the Museum of Jaén is free for all European Union citizens, while other visitors are charged a nominal fee of €1.50. The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM from Tuesday to Saturday, and from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Sundays and holidays. It remains closed to the public on Mondays. Researchers can access the museum's resources from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Monday to Friday.

Notable Pieces

The Museum of Jaén is home to several standout pieces, including the Iberian sculpture of the Wolf of El Pajarillo, the Warrior with Double Armor, the early Christian sarcophagus from Martos, and the Iberian sculptures from Porcuna. These pieces offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the region.

In conclusion, the Museum of Jaén is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the art and history of the Jaén province. Its impressive collections, housed within a beautifully designed building, provide a fascinating insight into the region's past and its artistic achievements. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, the Museum of Jaén promises an enriching and memorable experience.