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El Greco at the Prado Museum

Who was El Greco? 

El Greco (born Doménikos Theotokópoulos, 1541–1614) was a visionary artist of the Spanish Renaissance whose style defied convention. Originally from Crete—then part of the Republic of Venice—he trained in Byzantine icon painting before moving to Venice and later Rome, where he absorbed the techniques of the Italian Renaissance. Eventually, El Greco settled in Toledo, Spain, where he developed a dramatic and spiritual style uniquely his own.

Characterized by elongated figures, vibrant color palettes, and a striking emotional intensity, El Greco’s works were often underappreciated in his time. It was later that his work was celebrated as a precursor to Expressionism and Cubism. Today, he is recognized as one of the most important and original painters of Western art, with several of his most stunning works found at the Prado Museum.

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El Greco’s paintings at the Prado Museum

Visitors exploring art exhibits inside the Prado Museum, Madrid, during a guided tour.
  • The Nobleman with His Hand on His Chest (1580): One of El Greco’s most iconic portraits, this painting conveys dignity, mystery, and psychological depth. The identity of the sitter remains uncertain, adding to its intrigue.
  • The Holy Trinity (1577–1579): A masterpiece of religious emotion, this altarpiece combines Italian Mannerist influence with the expressive spirituality that defines El Greco’s mature style.
  • The Adoration of the Shepherds (1612–1614): This late work, possibly intended for the artist’s own tomb, is a swirling, ecstatic depiction of divine light and earthly reverence.
  • Saint Andrew and Saint Francis (1595–1598): A powerful juxtaposition of two saints, demonstrating El Greco’s skill in conveying spiritual intensity and inner character.
Prado Museum Paintings

Where to find El Greco’s paintings in the Prado

Visitors viewing artworks inside the Prado Museum, Madrid.

El Greco’s paintings are primarily located in Room 9B of Floor 1 of the Prado Museum, within the section dedicated to Spanish Renaissance and Mannerist painting. These rooms explore the transition from Renaissance to Baroque and feature artists like Ribera and Zurbarán alongside El Greco.

El Greco’s most notable work on display is The Nobleman with his Hand on his Chest, which you’ll find in room 9B as mentioned earlier. This is right next to Room 9, which houses Issac and Jacob by Ribera.

Tips for your visit to the Prado Museum 

  • Reaching the Prado Museum as soon as it opens at 10am is the best way to cut down on the amount of time you’ll spend waiting to buy your ticket. 
  • Even better? Book your tickets online. This way, you’ll completely skip waiting in line for your tickets and can proceed directly to the security check.
  • If you want expert insights from someone who knows the museum’s collection inside out, you should book the Museo del Prado Guided Tour. If you want to combine a guided tour to the Prado Museum with another notable Madrid icon, you can also book the Museo del Prado & Royal Palace of Madrid Guided Tour or the Museo del Prado & Reina Sofia Museum Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Entry. 

Pro tip: Ask your guide about the time El Greco was forced out of Rome by artists loyal to Michelangelo. It’s quite the story!

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Frequently asked questions about El Greco Prado Museum

You’re in for a treat! The Prado Museum boasts one of the richest El Greco collections in the world. Key works include The Nobleman with His Hand on His Chest, The Resurrection, The Holy Trinity, and The Adoration of the Shepherds. These paintings showcase his signature elongated forms and dramatic contrasts—pure magic in oil.