The new exhibition 'Prado. 21st Century' highlights the museum's transformations over the last 25 years. With over 14,000 new works, the Prado reaffirms itself as an international cultural reference.
The Prado Museum has inaugurated an ambitious exhibition titled Prado. 21st Century, which highlights its remarkable transformation over the last quarter of a century. From being considered a ‘chronic patient’ to becoming an inexhaustible repository of masterpieces, the institution has overcome significant challenges to establish itself as one of the most important museums in the world.
The exhibition includes an impressive collection of more than 14,203 new pieces, as well as various artistic forms ranging from paintings and sculptures to miniatures and audiovisual documents. This diversity reflects not only the richness of its collection but also the museum's constant evolution, which continues to acquire contemporary works.
During the presentation, Miguel Falomir, director of the Prado, highlighted that many colleagues from other museums are surprised to learn that the Prado continues to expand its collection: “The mistaken idea is that this museum is complete and closed; however, we are in continuous evolution.”
A key milestone in this transformation was the Prado autonomy law, approved in 2003 by political consensus, which allowed the institution to manage its resources with greater independence and efficiency. Since then, the museum has held more than 350 temporary exhibitions, published numerous books and catalogues, and restored thousands of works.
Despite the usual bustle among visitors, who queue for long periods to see iconic works such as Las Meninas or The Garden of Earthly Delights, this exhibition aims to show the public other lesser-known but equally fascinating facets of the museum. The inclusion of a model of the future Prado Campus, set to open in 2028 with the Hall of Realms, is a clear example of the commitment to the future.
Throughout the exhibition, technological innovations implemented in the museum are also presented: from advanced systems to control temperature and humidity to new informative labels created with laser printers. These improvements reflect a modern approach to artistic conservation and presentation.
It is not just about classical art; for the first time, space is given to historically overlooked female artists such as Sofonisba Anguissola or Rosa Bonheur, highlighting their contribution to the global artistic landscape.
As the exhibition progresses, it becomes clear that the Prado Museum is not just a place to contemplate art; it is a vibrant and interactive educational centre that fosters research and promotes a strong relationship with contemporary society. Falomir concluded by stating: “The Prado will be what the visitors want,” thus underscoring its commitment to adapting to contemporary needs and interests.
To close this unique experience, the museum has collaborated with Samsung to offer visitors a special opportunity: to take a photocall alongside digital reproductions of their favourite works. This initiative further strengthens its connection with new generations and its presence on social media.
With this innovative exhibition, the Prado Museum reaffirms its role as a polar star within the Spanish and international cultural landscape. Interested parties can visit ‘Prado. 21st Century’ until the end of the year to explore how this emblematic space has evolved over the last twenty-five years.
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