Until a few days ago, visitors could see the furniture and customs of the 19th-century upper middle class and even a photographic exhibition on the women of that era. Now, the Museum of Romanticism has closed its doors after detecting deficiencies in the building.
As announced by the institution itself on January 28, the closure is a temporary and preventive measure, with the aim of undergoing a general review of the facilities and ensuring the safety of all visitors.
The façade will remain fenced off
Museum entrance hall. | Editorial credit: Museum of Romanticism
The building is located at 13 San Mateo Street ( Centro district) and , as a preventive measure, fences have been placed around its main façade. Until the repair work is carried out, these will serve to “prevent the movement of passers-by,“ as stated in the press release.
The Museum of Romanticism has not specified the deficiencies that have forced it to cease its activity, but it intends to reopen its doors as soon as possible.
More than 100 years of history
Permanent collection and dress from the temporary exhibition Echoes of Romantic Fashion. | Editorial credit: Museum of Romanticism
The gallery was the brainchild of a nobleman, Benigno de la Vega-Inclán y Flaque, who wanted to exhibit several of his paintings, furniture, and objects and later donate them to the state. In 1924, the museum was inaugurated in a small palace in the center of Madrid, designed by architect Manuel Rodríguez between 1776 and 1779.
Little by little, the collection grew, and the Museum of Romanticism became a place of interest for intellectuals such as José Ortega y Gasset and the Marquis of Lozoya. In 2001, the building underwent a complete renovation and reopened in 2009 as we know it today.
In addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts various temporary exhibitions that are renewed throughout the year. The opening of Echoes of Romantic Fashion, an exhibition dedicated to 20th- and 21st-century costumes on loan from the Fundació Antoni de Montpalau,was scheduled for February 13 .
This exhibition, as well as all other visits, are now up in the air, pending further news on the condition of the museum’s facilities.