VISIT THE NATIONAL LIBRARY OF SPAIN

A temple of knowledge
Founded in 1712 by King Philip V, Spain's National Library is now one of the country's most important cultural institutions. Its impressive neoclassical façade and vast staircases make it one of Madrid's most emblematic monuments.

Why visit?
The library is not just a place for research: it also houses a museum open to the public. Ancient manuscripts, maps, incunabula, objects relating to the history of printing and temporary exhibitions showcasing Spain's written and graphic heritage are all on display.

A brief history and anecdotes
Originally, only scholars had access to its collections. Anecdote: among its treasures is the manuscript of the Cantar de mio Cidone of the oldest epics in Spanish literature, as well as an impressive collection of old maps.

What can you do there?
- Admire the monumental façade and its majestic staircases
- Visit the National Library Museum
- Discover the temporary exhibitions on literature and history
- Explore the exhibition rooms devoted to manuscripts and printing
- Stroll along the Paseo de Recoletos, where it is located

Where is it?
📍 Paseo de Recoletos, 20-22, 28001 Madrid, Spain
👉 See on Google Maps

Practical advice
- Admission to the museum costs around €3 (free on certain days)
- The reading rooms are reserved for researchers, but the exhibitions are open to all
- Easily accessible by metro (Colón, Serrano or Recoletos stations)
- Allow around 1? hours to visit the museum and exhibitions

To discover around
- National Archaeological Museum (next door)
- Plaza de Colón
- Salamanca district
- Paseo de la Castellana

Audioguide
🎧 Listen to our immersive description of the National Library of Spain on History Guide City Madrid !
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