Madrid’s Prado Museum reunite Valeriano D. Bécquer costumbrista masterpieces for summer exhibition

Historic Reunion of 19th-Century Masterpieces

Art lovers visiting Madrid can experience a unique historical display at the Museo Nacional del Prado. Running from 13 July 2026 through 4 October 2026, the museum brings together eight notable costumbrista paintings by 19th-century artist Valeriano Domínguez Bécquer for the very first time. Displayed inside Room 60 of the Villanueva Building, this special exhibition showcases an essential chapter of Spanish pictorial realism, praised for its sincerity, objectivity, and vivid depiction of traditional life.

【Attraction Tickets】Royal Palace of Madrid Ticket

Available 2026-10-23

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What to See at Room 60

Commissioned between 1866 and 1867 for the former Museo de la Trinidad, these artworks capture scenes from regional Spain across three distinct territories: Zaragoza, Soria, and Ávila. Highlights of the collection include:

• Zaragoza scenes: Works such as Interior de una casa en un pueblo de Aragón and El presente. Fiesta mayor en Moncayo (Aragón) detail colourful local clothing, working women, and traditional festivities including the stick dance (paloteo).

• Soria portraits: Highly regarded pieces like El baile, Un leñador, and Una hilandera portray dignified locals, hardworking woodsmen, and joyful community dances.

• Ávila depictions: Focused on the Sonsoles hermitage pilgrimage, featuring resting pilgrims in La fuente de la ermita and traditional ceremonial dress.

Exhibition displays also include extracts from the painter’s own written descriptions, offering visitors deep context into the cultural customs, local traditions, and clothing styles captured in his art.