Madrid, Spain - Visiting The Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza

If you're planning a trip to Madrid, Spain then don't miss the "must see" Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza. It's not only a must for art lovers but even if you have reservations about mulling around a museum, you'll appreciate the profound amount of exceptional art.

The Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza is Madrid's newest art museum and though the name may be hard to pronounce, it's not hard to see why it draws thousands of tourists and locals every day. The collection got its start when the Spanish government purchased a wealthy family's art collection in the early 1990's for about $350 million. The Villahermosa Place, a late 18th century building, was renovated and used to house the extensive collection. The collection consists of over 700 works of art spanning over 700 years of art history, and many of them considered some of the best paintings in the world.

The collection is presented in chronological order, starting with the earliest works on the second floor of the main building and ending on the first floor with the 20th century works. The second floor starts with an Impressionist collection which has many original works of this type of art. It was a very new approach to art in the 19th century. Artists include Degas, Monet and Renoir and their spontaneous use of brush strokes is magical.

Also on the second floor is the Landscapes and vedute Gallery with noteworthy paintings of urban views and public spaces exemplifying architecture of the middle 18th century. Their views of Madrid, Rome, Naples and Padua will give you a glimpse of what the artists saw at the time of their works. On this floor is also a collection of 19th century North American artwork that is known for its realism in landscapes.

The North American artwork continues on to the 1st floor with late 19th century works of Hassam, Twachtman and Sargent who where more receptive to European Impressionist work of the time. A room is dedicated to late Impressionist work including Monet, Gauguin and arro. The collection on this floor moves on to the Post Impressionism and early 20th century German Expressionism.

There is a new building being built to house more of the original collection and new pieces. It will hold up to 200 more works of art and additional temporary exhibits. Trip to Costa Blanca and its beaches.

With all of this artwork and the amazing grounds of Villarhermosa Palace, art buffs will want to plan a day at the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza. Even if you're not an art lover, you'll appreciate the works and enjoy the urban break.

Madrid, Spain - Visiting The National Library

     Are you planning a trip to Madrid, Spain? There are surely many things on your "must see" list in this vibrant and historical city. Well, going to the library may not sound like a tourist activity but in Madrid, a touring itinerary would not be complete without a visit o the Biblioteca Nacional (National Library). You don't have to spend a long time visiting the sight (you won't be doing that much reading) but an hour or two is a must.

     Not only does it hold the best collection of Spanish literature but also the collection is housed in an enormous Neoclassical building near the Plaza de Colon. It was constructed during the 19th century under Isabel II and it contains over 5 million pieces of literature. Its collection was formed from the royal library of Phillip V (some pieces acquired in conquests) and it covers everything relating to Spain. It's not just books; there are also some 30,000 manuscripts and nearly 20,000 newspapers in their collection.

     The scale of the interior is impressive; after walking in one of the three archway entrances, look straight up and take in the building's amazing architecture. The interiors and elaborate decorations are also fascinating. From the entrance you can see the wrought -iron gates and the elaborate carvings on the Corinthian columns. There are several statues to admire; check out the statues of Alfonso X and San Isidoro along the main staircase. Also on display are images of many of Spain's famous writers.

     If you're a literature buff (Spanish literature, in particular) then the National Library is sure to keep you occupied for hours. But even if you're not, there is still a lot for you to see. It is a wonderful combination of old and new, like much of Madrid.

     There are also exhibits sponsored by the library that could very well be in a museum. The exhibits themselves can be worth the stop on your sightseeing agenda. Visit the library's website for more information on exhibits as well as opening and closing times. There is no cost to visit the museum and it is open all year round.

     While you might not want to read literature on your holiday, you should make sure to have the National Library on your sightseeing list along with the wonderful beaches of Benidorm. Not only is the collection impressive but you can also learn a bit about Spanish writers and take in some amazing architecture.