National Library

Between Madrid's Recoletos avenue and Serrano street, alongside Plaza de Colon Square, you will find the majestic National Library building. It has a rectangular floor plan and is neoclassical in style. Work began on its construction in 1866 and was completed in 1892, coinciding with the 4th centenary of the discovery of the Americas.

Come and visit this library which is a monument in itself. Special mention should be made of its broad exterior staircase and its main facade, with a Corinthian style, square-fronted portico, finished with sculptures by the artist Agustin Querol, representing the Triumph of the Sciences and the Arts. The National Library houses a bibliographic archive of incalculable value, comprised of books from the early days of print, engravings, musical scores, manuscripts, editorial rarities and a host of printed documents. The National Archaeological Museum is to be found directly alongside this building.

Practical info:
Construction: Public building
Artistic period: Neo-classical
Historic period: 19th century

Prices:
Admission free

Useful information:
From Monday to Friday
Does not close at midday
From 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Saturday
From 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM