Notable Prado Museum paintings you must see

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Las Meninas by Diego Velázquez (1656)

At first glance, this painting seems like a snapshot of the royal family, featuring Princess Margarita with her maids, a dwarf, and even Velázquez himself. But look closer—there's a mirror reflecting the king and queen, and the man in the doorway adds to the mystery. It's like a 17th-century puzzle that keeps you guessing.

Saturn Devouring His Son by Francisco de Goya (1819-1823)

This haunting image shows the Roman god Saturn eating one of his children. Painted directly on Goya's home walls during his dark years, it's a raw portrayal of fear and madness. Some say it's about time destroying all things; others see it as a reflection of Spain's turmoil. Either way, it's unforgettable.

The Garden of Earthly Delights by Hieronymus Bosch (1490-1510)

This triptych is a visual feast. The left panel shows Eden, the center is filled with bizarre pleasures, and the right depicts a nightmarish hell. It's like a medieval comic book warning about the consequences of indulgence.

The Crucifixion by Juan de Flandes (1509)

This detailed panel captures the solemn moment of Christ's crucifixion. Originally part of an altarpiece, it showcases the emotional depth and intricate style of Hispano-Flemish art.

David and Goliath by Caravaggio (1600)

Caravaggio brings the biblical tale to life with dramatic lighting. Young David holds Goliath's severed head, not in triumph, but with a contemplative expression. It's a powerful depiction of victory and its emotional weight.

The Nude Maja by Francisco de Goya (1797-1800)

This bold painting features a reclining nude woman gazing confidently at the viewer. Unlike traditional nudes, she's unapologetic and real. Goya also painted her clothed, but this version stirred controversy and challenged artistic norms.

The Firing Squad of May 3 in Madrid by Francisco de Goya (1814)

This powerful work depicts Napoleon's troops executing Spanish rebels. The central figure, arms raised, becomes a symbol of resistance and the horrors of war. It's a raw, emotional piece that speaks volumes.

The Three Graces by Peter Paul Rubens (1635)

Rubens celebrates beauty and harmony with three intertwined goddesses. Their soft forms and joyful expressions embody the essence of love and charm in Baroque art.

The Nobleman with his Hand on his Chest by El Greco (1580)

This portrait exudes dignity and introspection. The gentleman's hand gesture suggests an oath or deep sincerity. El Greco's elongated style adds a spiritual touch to this iconic image.

The Surrender of Breda by Diego Velázquez (1635)

Instead of glorifying war, Velázquez focuses on a moment of respect. The Spanish general receives the keys to the city from the Dutch commander, highlighting honor over conquest. It's a nuanced take on victory.

Nationalities represented at the Prado Museum

Spanish art

The Prado is renowned for having the most complete and comprehensive collection of Spanish paintings, especially from the 11th to the 18th centuries. It features masterpieces by Spanish masters such as Diego Velázquez, Francisco Goya, El Greco, José de Ribera, and Francisco de Zurbarán. The collection reflects Spain’s history and cultural identity, with many works commissioned or collected by Spanish monarchs.

Italian art

The museum holds an important collection of Italian Renaissance and Baroque paintings, including works by Titian, Raphael, Tintoretto, Paolo Veronese, and Mantegna. Many of these were acquired through royal patronage, especially by Philip II and Philip IV, who commissioned Velázquez to collect Italian paintings for the Spanish court.

Flemish and Northern European art

The Prado has significant holdings of Flemish and Northern Renaissance art, including masterpieces by Hieronymus Bosch, Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony van Dyck, and Albrecht Dürer. These works highlight the influence of the Flemish school on Spanish art and the broader European artistic dialogue.

Other European schools

The museum also contains notable works from German, French, and English schools, though in smaller numbers compared to Spanish, Italian, and Flemish art. Artists such as Nicolas Poussin, Claude Lorrain, and Antoine Watteau are a few icons whose work finds representation at the Prado.