The National Ceramic Museum Valencia, located in the Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ceramics and decorative arts. The museum houses the largest national collection of ceramics, dating from the 18th century to the contemporary period, and includes pieces by Picasso. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries and learn about the history and evolution of ceramics and decorative arts in Spain.
The Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas, the museum’s home, is an impressive example of Baroque architecture. The palace’s grand façade, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, is a sight to behold. Inside, visitors can admire the palace’s ornate interiors, including the stunning marble staircase and the ballroom, which is decorated with beautiful frescoes and stucco work.
Valencia, the museum’s host city, is a vibrant and historic destination. The city is renowned for its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and lively cultural scene. Visitors can explore Valencia’s many museums, galleries, and historic landmarks, or simply relax on one of the city’s beautiful beaches. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for a fun and exciting destination, Valencia has something for everyone.
History and Architecture
Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas
The National Ceramic Museum Valencia is housed in the Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas, a magnificent example of Baroque architecture in Valencia. The palace was originally built in the 15th century in the Gothic style and was transformed into a Rococo masterpiece in the 18th century. The palace was later renovated in the 19th century, with the addition of the famous “two waters” balcony, which gives the palace its name.
Manuel González Martí Legacy
The National Ceramic Museum Valencia owes its existence to Manuel González Martí, a Valencian collector who donated his extensive collection of ceramics, porcelain, and decorative arts to the Spanish state in 1949. González Martí was a passionate collector and an expert in the field of ceramics, and his legacy is still evident in the museum’s collections today.
The National Ceramic Museum Valencia is home to one of the largest collections of ceramics in the world, with over 20,000 pieces spanning the history of ceramic art from the Iberian and Roman periods to Medieval ceramics and beyond. The museum’s collections are divided into several sections, including Valencian ceramics, porcelain, and decorative arts.
The museum’s collection of Valencian ceramics is particularly noteworthy, with pieces dating back to the 14th century. The collection includes both functional and decorative pieces, including plates, bowls, vases, and tiles. The museum’s collection of porcelain is also impressive, with pieces from China, Japan, and Europe dating back to the 16th century.
In addition to its permanent collections, the National Ceramic Museum Valencia also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing the work of contemporary ceramic artists and exploring various themes related to ceramic art and design.
Exhibitions and Collections
Permanent Exhibition
The National Ceramic Museum Valencia boasts an extensive collection of ceramics and decorative arts, dating from the 18th century to the contemporary period. The museum houses the largest national collection of ceramics, including pieces by Picasso. The permanent exhibition is divided into several thematic rooms, including the Valencian Kitchen, which showcases traditional Valencian ceramics and utensils, and the Red Room, which displays Hispano-Moresque ceramics from Manises and Paterna.
In addition to ceramics, the museum’s permanent exhibition also includes a variety of other decorative arts, such as furniture, clothing, carriages, and mosaics. Visitors can explore the private rooms of the Marques de Dos Aguas Palace, including the Porcelain Sitting Room and the Rococo Sedan Chair.
Thematic Rooms
The National Ceramic Museum Valencia has several thematic rooms that showcase specific types of ceramics and decorative arts. The Valencian Ceramics room displays a variety of ceramics from the Valencian region, including pieces from Manises and Paterna. The museum also has a room dedicated to Picasso, which displays several of his ceramic works.
Artistic Contributions
The National Ceramic Museum Valencia has an impressive collection of works by Valencian artists, including Ignacio Pinazo and José Benlliure. The museum also has a collection of 20th-century decorative arts, which includes pieces by designers such as Emilio Terry and Jean-Michel Frank.
Temporary Exhibitions
The National Ceramic Museum Valencia regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase a variety of decorative arts. Past exhibitions have included displays of contemporary ceramics and decorative arts from around the world.
The museum’s temporary exhibitions are a great way to explore the world of ceramics and decorative arts and to learn about new artists and styles. Visitors should check the museum’s website for information on current and upcoming exhibitions.
Where is the Museum?
The National Ceramic Museum Valencia is located in the Marques de Dos Aguas Palace in the heart of Valencia’s historic centre. The palace was built in the 15th century and was later renovated in the 18th century in the Rococo style. The palace is a stunning example of Valencian architecture and is considered one of the most important buildings in the city.
Visitors can find the museum at Calle Poeta Querol, 2, 46002 Valencia. The museum is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus and metro stops located nearby. The closest metro station is Xàtiva, which is just a short walk from the museum.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays and on certain public holidays. Visitors are advised to check the museum’s website for details of opening times and any temporary closures or changes to the schedule.
Overall, the National Ceramic Museum Valencia is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Valencia. With its stunning collection of ceramics and decorative arts, as well as its beautiful setting in the Marques de Dos Aguas Palace, the museum is an essential part of any visit to the city.
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
The museum is open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, and on public holidays. The opening hours are from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, and from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
Admission Fees
Admission fee to the museum is €3, which is discounted to €1.50 for students, seniors, and large groups. Children under 18 years of age and those with disabilities are admitted free of charge.
Guided Tours
Guided tours of the museum are available in Spanish and English. These tours provide an in-depth look at the exhibits and the history of ceramics in Valencia.
Accessibility
The National Ceramic Museum Valencia is wheelchair accessible, and there are no steps or stairs to navigate. There are also accessible restrooms available for visitors.
Photography
Visitors are allowed to take photographs of the exhibits, but flash photography and tripods are not permitted.
Museum Shop
The museum has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs, books, and ceramics.
Overall, the National Ceramic Museum Valencia is a fascinating and informative museum that is well worth a visit. With its beautiful Baroque palace setting and impressive collection of over 5,000 exhibits, visitors are sure to be impressed.