Madrid History Museum: collections and free admission

Updated on October 5, 2026

The Museo de Historia de Madrid occupies the former San Fernando hospice on Calle Fuencarral, near Tribunal metro station. Pedro de Ribera's Baroque entrance immediately catches the eye from the street. Inside, paintings, objects and depictions of the city trace Madrid's transformation from the arrival of the Court in 1561 to the early twentieth century. The large model dating from 1830 helps you recognise the old centre before its modern transformations. This free municipal museum makes a useful addition to a walk around Malasaña, particularly for understanding the squares and buildings you have just passed.

Highlights

The Baroque entrance

Pedro de Ribera's sculpted decoration gives the former hospice its monumental façade. The photograph shows the entrance before the restoration campaign announced by the museum; its visibility may change during the works.

The 1830 model of Madrid

Created by León Gil de Palacio, it depicts the streets, blocks and buildings of the old city. Find a landmark you know first, then compare it with a present-day map.

Allegory of the City of Madrid

This painting by Goya is one of the collection's signature works. The paintings and objects around it shed light on political and social representations of the capital.

Practical info

Tips

Admission is free for everyone (prices checked in October 2026). Allow approximately one hour for selected highlights, longer if you enjoy maps and urban history. Group visits led by the museum's cultural volunteers require booking through the municipal platform: Tuesday at 11:00, Wednesday and Thursday at 11:00 and 17:00, subject to available places. Free admission does not guarantee a place on a guided tour. The museum has announced restoration of the entrance: check its information before coming specifically to photograph the façade.

How to get there

Calle de Fuencarral, 78, 28004 Madrid. Metro Tribunal (lines 1 and 10) is very close; Bilbao (lines 1 and 4) is another option within walking distance.