National Museum of Archaeology

The Museo Arqueologico Nacional on the Paseo de Recoletos is Spain's central archaeological museum, presenting finds from prehistory to the 19th century. It was founded in 1867 by Queen Isabella II and brings together collections from the former Royal Cabinet, royal curiosities and dissolved monasteries. Its star piece is the Dama de Elche, an Iberian limestone bust from the 4th century BC, alongside gold hoards such as the Treasure of Guarrazar with Visigothic votive crowns, Roman mosaics, a replica of the Altamira cave paintings and rich al-Andalus craftsmanship. After a full renovation from 2008 to 2014 the galleries feel bright and chronologically clear. Visitors move through a compact journey across the Iberian Peninsula with Celtiberians, Phoenicians, Romans, Moors and medieval kingdoms.