MNAC Barcelona

Installed in the majestic National Palace on the Montjuïc hill, this museum offers you a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. But that's just the beginning of what awaits you inside!

What to see at the MNAC Barcelona ?

The Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC) houses a rich collection of Catalan art ranging from the Middle Ages to modern times, with a particular focus on modernism, Gothic, and Romanesque art.

The MNAC embraces all art forms (sculpture, painting, decorative arts, drawing, engraving, posters, photography, and coins) and it tells the general history of Catalan art from the Romanesque period to the mid-20th century.

In the case of the Romanesque and Gothic collections, this work is characterized by the Catalan origin of most pieces, although, especially in the Gothic style, comparisons are made with art from other regions.

Regarding the Renaissance and Baroque collections, the artworks lead to a more international perspective, featuring works by great painters like El Greco, Zurbarán, Velázquez, Cranach, Rubens...

The MNAC’s art collections from the late 19th century to the early 20th century are once again mainly composed of works by Catalan artists, forming a narrative that explores Modernism, Noucentisme, and avant-garde movements, without overlooking all other art forms.

Must-see collections

• Gothic Art: A captivating collection of painted altarpieces and sculptures.
• Renaissance and Baroque: Masterpieces by great European masters such as El Greco, Velázquez, and Zurbarán.
• Modern Art: A vast section dedicated to Catalan artists like Ramon Casas and Santiago Rusiñol.
• Photography and Drawings: Various temporary collections for contemporary art enthusiasts.

Opening hours

The Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC) offers flexible hours depending on the season, perfect for planning your visit to Barcelona!

From October to April: Tuesday to Saturday: 10 AM to 6 PM
Sunday and holidays: 10 AM to 3 PM
From May to September: Tuesday to Saturday: 10 AM to 8 PM
Sunday and holidays: 10 AM to 3 PM
Closed: The MNAC is closed every Monday, except on holidays. Additionally, the museum is closed on January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.

Free admission to MNAC Barcelona

Good to know, the MNAC offers free entry every Saturday from 3 PM, as well as the first Sunday of each month.

Address

Address: Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc, s/n, 08038 Barcelona, Spain.

Neighborhood: Montjuïc, a district rich in tourist attractions such as the Mies van der Rohe Foundation, the Joan Miró Foundation, the Magic Fountain, the Poble Espanyol, and the Botanical Garden.

Email: mnac@mnac.cat

Phone: +34 936 220 360

Official Website: Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya

How to get there?

Barcelona Metro: The Barcelona Metro is a quick and efficient way to reach the MNAC.

Line 1 (red): Stop at Espanya. Line 3 (green): Also stop at Espanya.
>> From the Espanya station, a pleasant 10-15 minute walk through Avinguda de la Reina Maria Cristina and the Montjuïc escalators will lead you to the museum.

By bus: Several bus lines drop you off near the museum: Bus lines 13, 55, 150.

The 150 bus line is especially convenient, as it goes directly up to the Palau Nacional, where the MNAC is located.

Hop-on Hop-off Barcelona: The Barcelona Tourist Bus (Bus Turístic) is a popular option for visitors: Take the Red Route and get off at the MNAC stop. This option includes an audio guide to explore other tourist sites along the way.

By taxi: Taxis are a comfortable and quick option, especially if you are traveling with luggage or prefer to avoid the uphill walk: There's a taxi stand right at the entrance of the MNAC.

The ride from the city center (Plaça Catalunya) takes about 10-15 minutes.

On foot: For the more adventurous, the MNAC is accessible on foot from Plaça d'Espanya:

It's a pleasant, albeit uphill, walk of 15-20 minutes. Enjoy the views of the Montjuïc Fountains and Avinguda Maria Cristina along the way.

With Bicing: If you're a fan of the city's bike-sharing service, Bicing: There are Bicing stations near Plaça Espanya, but be aware, Montjuïc has some steep slopes! Opt for electric bikes if available.

Where is the MNAC on a map of Barcelona?

FAQS : Everything you need to know about MNAC Barcelona

How long does it take to visit the MNAC?

A visit to the MNAC can take between 2 and 4 hours, depending on your pace and your interest in the collections. For an in-depth visit including temporary exhibitions and a break in the restaurant or cafeteria, allow half a day.

Are combined tickets available for other museums in Barcelona?

Yes, the MNAC is part of the Articket Barcelona pass, which gives access to six of Barcelona's major museums, including the Picasso Museum, the Joan Miró Foundation, MACBA and others. The pass is valid for 12 months, and offers free admission.

What famous artists can I discover at the MNAC?

The MNAC is home to works by many iconic artists, including:

• Ramon Casas and Santiago Rusiñol for Catalan modernist art.
• El Greco, Velázquez and Zurbarán for Renaissance and Baroque.
• Anonymous medieval masters in the Romanesque collection.

What's the museum's centerpiece?

One of the highlights of the MNAC is the collection ofCatalan Romanesque art, which includes impressive murals, such as those in the church of Sant Climent de Taüll. These frescoes are world-renowned for their quality and historical importance.

Is there a cafeteria or restaurant at the MNAC?

Yes, the MNAC offers two gastronomic areas:

• The cafeteria in the Salle Ovale, ideal for a quick break.
• The Òleum restaurant on the upper floor, offering a refined culinary experience with a panoramic view of Barcelona.

Can I take photos inside the museum?

Yes, photography is permitted inside the museum, but only without flash, to protect the works of art. The use of tripods and selfie poles is generally prohibited.

Does the museum offer guided tours or audio guides?

Yes, the MNAC offers

• Guided tours in several languages to explore the collections with an expert.
• Audioguides, available for hire, for independent, in-depth exploration of the works and exhibitions.

Can I walk to the MNAC from Plaça d'Espanya?

Yes, the MNAC can be reached on foot from Plaça d'Espanya in about 15-20 minutes. The route includes a stroll along the Avinguda de la Reina Maria Cristina and the Montjuïc escalators.

Is there a souvenir store at the MNAC?

Yes, the MNAC has a gift store where you'll find art books, reproductions, objects inspired by the museum's collections and unique gifts.
These clear, comprehensive answers will help your page meet visitors' needs