The secret Prado Museum of Catalonia corresponds to one of the great museums of the city. Due to remodeling works it has been closed for the last months. Last weekend the Biblioteca Museu Víctor Balaguer opened its doors again, that is in Vilanova i la Geltrú. It should be noted, that this act is the most important commemorating the bicentenary of the birth of the liberal politician and the birth of the writer to this writer.
Museo del Prado: Renovation of exhibition halls
After two years of works, this center renews its exhibition rooms where you can see collections gathered by Balaguer during the nineteenth century. As well as loans from various museums. Being one of these, the Prado Museum, an event that has transformed the Victor Balaguer as the best ambassador in Catalonia of the art gallery in Madrid.
It had a total of 38 pieces
In addition, in 1984 when this museum was inaugurated, Balaguer managed thanks to contacts in the Court that the Prado will take the decision to lend some pieces from the collection to the museum of Vilanova. This collaboration has been renewed over time. Once Balaguer opened, a total of 38 pieces, including sculpture and painting, were on loan. Juan Bautista Maíno, Vicente Carducho, Pedro Orrente and Juan Carreño de Miranda signed these works. This mention also deserved the great composition of Joaquín Sorolla “Dos de mayo” and, in addition to this, the other oil paintings, “The Annunciation” by El Greco.
It is part of the initiative called El Prado Extendido.
This collaboration agreement was strengthened in the eighties of the last century and is part of the initiative called El Prado Extendido (The Extended Prado). Anyone wishing to visit the Víctor Balaguer will be able to contemplate a journey that will take them from the sixteenth century to the beginning of the eighteenth century. Here you can observe the combination of numerous genres such as landscapes and still life, religious and mythological painting and court portraiture.
Prado Museum: Jewels on display
Among the jewels on display are “The Holy Family, St. John and St. Anne” and “St. Francis of Assisi and Brother Leo deepening about death”. Where both belong to El Greco. They also demonstrate the mastery of an artist in the field of religious painting. Similarly, it is essential to highlight “Unknown Lady”, which is a composition of Juan Pantoja de la Cruz in which his mastery in portraiture is demonstrated. In addition, the detail in the ruff of the protagonist.
Two oil paintings were dedicated to King Charles IV
Likewise, two of Francisco de Goya’s oil paintings were dedicated to King Charles IV and his wife Maria Luisa of Parma in which the psychology of the brush of the Aragonese painter is noted. As on the walls of the Victor Balaguer thanking the Prado, are pieces by Murillo Carreño de Miranda, Ribera or Brueghel the Elder.
Museo del Prado: an impressive collection
The collection of the Museo del Prado secreto de Cataluña is diverse. It also involves works by popular Spanish artists. In addition to important pieces by masters of Europe. Among the treasures of the museum are paintings by El Greco, Diego Velázquez and Francisco de Goya. Also, an outstanding collection of Flemish and Italian Renaissance art. Among the most outstanding pieces is a portrait of the Infanta Margarita, which experts have debated its authenticity, attributing it to Velázquez. It is a work that, along with other intriguing works, provides visitors with a unique and educational experience.
An experience that invites discovery and reflection
The museum also offers guided tours that help visitors explore the works in detail and learn about their history and context. Each visit offers a quiet environment and a private atmosphere, making it special. For those who are interested in discovering a hidden treasure, it is advisable to plan the visit in advance. Because access may be limited and reservations are required. Being exclusive contributes to the magic of the place, allowing each visitor to enjoy the art without the distractions of mass tourism.
In conclusion, the Secret Prado Museum of Catalonia certifies the rich artistic heritage of the region and is a hidden treasure to be discovered. Likewise, its masterpieces, its academic activities and its unique atmosphere make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Catalonia.
