In the heart of Madrid, nestled amidst the lush gardens of Campo del Moro and flanked by the majestic Almudena Cathedral and the Royal Palace, stands the Royal Collections Gallery (Galería de las Colecciones Reales). This modern marvel of architecture and design is a treasure trove of Spanish history and culture, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the opulent heritage of Spain's royal lineage.
The origins of the Royal Collections Gallery can be traced back to the 19th century when the Spanish Crown began to open various museums to showcase its most prized possessions. The Real Museo del Pintura y Escultura, now known as the Museo del Prado, was the first to open its doors in 1819, followed by the Real Armería in 1849. Over the years, there were numerous attempts to create a dedicated museum for tapestries and carriages, but these plans never materialized until much later.
The idea of a comprehensive museum to house the royal collections was revived in the late 20th century. In 1998, Patrimonio Nacional proposed the creation of a museum that would not only display carriages but also the exquisite works of art, jewels, and tapestries amassed by the Habsburg and Bourbon dynasties. After a series of design competitions and legal hurdles, the project finally took shape under the architectural vision of Emilio Tuñón and Luis Moreno Mansilla. Construction began in 2006, and despite several delays and budget increases, the building was completed in 2015.
The Royal Collections Gallery is a striking example of contemporary architecture, seamlessly blending with its historic surroundings. The building's façade is adorned with Gris Quintana granite, giving it a sleek yet imposing appearance. The use of large stone slabs, meticulously hollowed out to encase the reinforced concrete structure, adds to the gallery's grandeur. The interior, initially planned to feature black granite flooring, had to be adjusted due to budget constraints, but it remains a testament to thoughtful and innovative design.
After years of anticipation, the Royal Collections Gallery finally opened to the public on June 28, 2023. The gallery's inaugural exhibition was a grand display of four colossal Solomonic columns, crafted by José de Churriguera and Francisco de Herrera el Mozo. These magnificent columns, each weighing 600 kilograms and adorned with gold leaf and lapis lazuli, set the tone for the opulence that lies within.
The gallery houses an impressive collection of over 650 pieces, ranging from paintings and sculptures to furniture and architectural elements. Among the highlights are the Cross of Lucecio and the crown of Abbot Theodosius from the Visigothic period, a marble relief of Olympia, Queen of Macedonia, by Desiderio da Settignano, and the polyptych of Isabella the Catholic by Juan de Flandes. Visitors can also marvel at Michel Sittow's portrait The Man with the Pearl, Rafael Sanzio's tapestry The Miraculous Draught of Fishes, and Michiel Coxcie's Christ Carrying the Cross.
The Royal Collections Gallery offers a chronological journey through Spain's royal history, starting with the medieval dynasties and the Habsburgs on the first level, followed by the Bourbons on the second level. The top level serves as the visitor reception area, while the lower levels house temporary exhibitions and storage facilities. This thoughtful arrangement allows visitors to experience the evolution of Spanish art and culture through the lens of its royal patrons.
Among the gallery's most notable exhibits are the armor and helmet worn by Charles V at the Battle of Mühlberg, the Eagle Fountain crafted for Philip II, and the intricately decorated sedan chair of Queen Barbara of Braganza. The gallery also features iconic paintings such as Caravaggio's Salome with the Head of John the Baptist, Diego Velázquez's The White Horse, and José de Ribera's Juan José de Austria on Horseback.
The gallery's collection is dynamic, with temporary exhibits rotating regularly to showcase different aspects of Spain's rich heritage. Some of the future highlights include the Mühlberg armor by Desiderius Helmschmid, Titian's Christ Crucified, and Goya's The Boar Hunt.
The Royal Collections Gallery is not just a museum; it is a celebration of Spain's royal legacy and cultural heritage. Its walls echo with the stories of kings and queens, artists and artisans, and the countless individuals who have contributed to the nation's illustrious history. With its stunning architecture, meticulously curated exhibits, and a prime location in the heart of Madrid, the Royal Collections Gallery is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the grandeur of Spain's past.
As you explore the gallery, you will be transported through time, witnessing the evolution of art, culture, and craftsmanship that has shaped Spain's royal narrative. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, the Royal Collections Gallery promises an unforgettable journey through the annals of Spanish royalty.
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