Velázquez Palace

This Spanish palace and exhibition hall in Madrid’s Parque del Retiro primarily features temporary exhibits of Spain’s national museum of modern art. Built in 1883, the beautiful structure is covered by glass and cast iron meant to let in natural light. The architecture is said to be inspired by the Crystal Palace in London’s Hyde Park. Its exterior features arches decorated with detailed, colorful tiles alongside red brick and rows of well-manicured trees. 
Architect Ricardo Velázquez designed it for the Exposicion Nacional de Minería. It was meant to show Spain’s achievements in ceramics, glass, and mining at the time. After its use in the exposition it was utilized as center for Spain’s overseas territories until it was restored in the 20th century and revitalized as an important center for contemporary Spanish art.

Practical Info

It is about a 20 minute walk into the Parque del Retiro from the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia, of which the palace is a part of. The Velazquez Palace sits  nearby a small lake, as well as the similar structure of the Palacio de Cristal. The nearest metro station is Retiro and the palace is free to enter. It is open April to December from 10 am to 10 pm and October to March from 10 am to 6 pm. A list of temporary exhibitions is available at the Reina Sofia.