Reina Sofía

Established in 1992, the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, better known simply as the Reina Sofía, is a relatively recent addition to the Madrid art scene, but has quickly established itself as one of the most popular galleries in all of Europe.

Named after the former Queen of Spain, the Reina Sofía is mainly focused on Spanish art from the 20th century through to the present day: including works by major names like Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Joan Miró.

Of these, the main draw is probably Picasso’s legendary Guernica (1937), often cited as the most potent anti-war painting in the history of art. The piece is so popular (and so big) that it has an entire room for itself.

Away from the art, the Reina Sofía building is also a sight to behold; formerly a hospital, the original 18th-century structure has been spiced-up by contemporary additions, including the iconic glass elevators that move up and down the museum’s façade.