We’ll begin our tour by looking at the paintings that once formed part of the private collections of Spanish monarchs. These works are the initial core of the Prado Museum and account for the presence of such masterpieces as The Garden of Earthly Delights by Hieronymus Bosch and The Descent from the Cross by Roger van der Weyden, two of the most important paintings in the Prado. Next, we'll turn our attention to the advent of the Habsburg dynasty in Spain. Brought upon by Charles V, who, along with his son Philip II, became prominent patrons of Venetian artists, chiefly Titian. We may dwell for a while with this artist's powerful portraits of both regents. We’ll also discuss how a fascination with Italy—specifically Venice—infused the work of Velazquez, whom King Philip IV (grandson of Philip II) sent to Italy in order to acquire paintings.

Next we’ll look at Rubens, who sojourned at the court in Madrid and who provides a unique contrast to Velazquez, in particular Velazquez's famous Las Meninas. We'll finish in the Goya rooms, where we can review the relationships between artists and their royal patrons as we study such works as The Family of Charles IV. We'll conclude with a deep appreciation for the variety of masterpieces contained within the Prado, and how this museum serves as a capsule of European history from the Renaissance to modernity

For this tour, your tickets are pre-purchased which allows you to skip the ticket office line upon arrival at the museum. You may still have to wait in a security line or in a line to have your pre-purchased ticket scanned.   

Is this tour wheelchair-accessible?
The museum is accessible to wheelchairs with the exception of certain areas connected to the Villanueva building due to its design. Please contact us to discuss in more detail your mobility concerns so that we can best advise.

There are 7 or more people in my group but your website won't allow me to include more than 6 participants. Can't you make an exception?

No, unfortunately due to venue reservation restrictions we cannot accommodate groups larger than 6 people. If your group is larger, we recommend you split into multiple groups.