Museu de Belles Arts de València

The Museu de Belles Arts de València, or Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia in Spanish, is a cultural gem nestled in the heart of Valencia, Spain. This museum, renowned for its extensive and impressive collection of fine art, is a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Spanish and European art history.

The History of Museu de Belles Arts de València

The origins of the Museu de Belles Arts de València date back to 1913 when it was officially separated from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Carlos by a royal decree. Since then, it has operated as an autonomous institution under the management of the Generalidad Valenciana. During the Spanish Civil War, the museum, then housed in the old Carmen Calzado convent, was dismantled and used as a storage facility for artistic treasures. Many of its collections were temporarily relocated to Madrid and stored at the Prado Museum.

After the war, efforts were made to recover and restore the museum's collections. In 1939, an evaluation was conducted to assess the damage to the convent building, but it was eventually decided to move the museum to its current location, the Colegio Seminario de San Pío V. This building, originally founded by Archbishop Juan Tomás de Rocabertí for the training of priests, was designed by Juan Pérez Castiel in 1683 and completed in the 18th century.

The Building

The Colegio de San Pío V is a stunning example of Baroque and Neoclassical architecture. The building consists of two main parts: the college and the temple. The college is arranged around a quadrangular courtyard, with two towers on the façade facing the old Turia riverbed, giving it a castle-like appearance. The façade is adorned with diamond-shaped rustication, alternating straight and curved pediments, cornices, and decorative vases and balls.

Inside, visitors can admire the restored Patio del Embajador Vich, a marble courtyard originally housed in a now-demolished palace and reconstructed here in 2006. The temple, attached to the main building, features an octagonal plan and a large blue-tiled dome, rebuilt after being demolished in 1925. The façade, designed by José Mínguez, showcases the transition from Baroque to Neoclassical styles with its two-story pilasters and curvilinear pediment.

Exploring the Collection

The Museu de Belles Arts de València boasts a diverse and comprehensive collection that spans from the 14th to the early 20th century. The museum is particularly known for its impressive array of Gothic Valencian paintings from the 14th and 15th centuries. One of the highlights is the self-portrait by Diego Velázquez, as well as works by renowned Italian masters such as Gherardo Starnina and Pinturicchio.

The museum's collection reflects the rich history of Valencian art, showcasing works from various periods, including the International Gothic style, the Valencian Renaissance influenced by Italian Quattrocento, the early Baroque period influenced by Caravaggio, and the Neoclassicism of the 18th century. Notable Valencian artists featured in the museum include Miquel Alcanyís, Antoni Peris, Pere Nicolau, Gonçal Peris, Vicent Macip, Yáñez de la Almedina, Joan de Joanes, Francisco Ribalta, Pedro Orrente, Jerónimo Jacinto de Espinosa, Maella, Vergara, Palomino, Bonanat, Sorolla, Pinazo, Cecilio Pla, Fillol, and Muñoz Degrain.

Highlights of the Collection

Among the museum's treasures, the collection of Valencian Gothic paintings stands out. These works, created by medieval painters from the region, include complete altarpieces and fragments, primarily executed in tempera. The collection also features significant examples of Flemish-influenced Spanish painting, such as Bartolomé Bermejo's La Virgen de la Leche (The Virgin and Child).

The Renaissance period is well represented by works from Yáñez de la Almedina and Joan de Joanes, as well as Mannerist pieces by Luis de Morales. The Baroque period includes masterpieces by Diego Velázquez and Tomás Yepes. The transition to the 19th century is marked by a collection of works by Francisco de Goya, while the 19th century itself is represented by paintings from Ignacio Pinazo, Joaquín Sorolla, Cecilio Plá, and Antonio Muñoz Degrain.

Unique Pieces

The Museu de Belles Arts de València also houses several rare and unique works that are seldom found in other Spanish museums. These include Italian Gothic pieces such as Gherardo Starnina's complete altarpiece, a panel attributed to Cenni di Francesco di ser Cenni, and works by artists like San Pietro di San Simone, Antoniazzo Romano, Pinturicchio, Giampietrino, Diogo de Contreiras, Bartholomeus Spranger, Giovanni Baglione, Mario Minniti, and Juan de Pareja.

Visiting the Museu de Belles Arts de València

A visit to the Museu de Belles Arts de València is a journey through centuries of artistic excellence. The museum offers a rich and varied experience, allowing visitors to explore the evolution of art in Valencia and beyond. Whether you are an art aficionado or a casual visitor, the museum's collection provides a fascinating insight into the artistic heritage of the region.

In conclusion, the Museu de Belles Arts de València is not just a repository of art; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of Valencian and European art. Its impressive collection, housed in a magnificent historical building, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Valencia. Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of this remarkable museum, and let the art transport you to a different time and place.