Museo de Bellas Artes de Córdoba

Historic Building and Museum in Córdoba

Plaza Del Potro Cordoba E1592397935843
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Américo Toledano

The Museo de Bellas Artes de Córdoba is one of the top attractions in Córdoba for visitors who appreciate Spanish painting, sculpture, and the region's vibrant artistic heritage. Located beside the Museo Julio Romero de Torres in the atmospheric Plaza del Potro, this fine arts museum offers a journey through centuries of artistic expression, beautifully framed by Renaissance courtyards and the historic architecture of the Old Hospital of Charity.

Its calm, intimate galleries make it one of the best places to visit in Córdoba for anyone seeking a meaningful cultural experience away from the city's busier landmarks. Often visited on walking tours of Córdoba, it offers a refreshing blend of history, art, and local tradition.

History and Significance of Museo de Bellas Artes de Córdoba

Founded in 1844, the museum began as part of a national effort to preserve Spain’s artistic heritage. Its home — the Old Hospital of la Caridad — dates to the late 15th century, founded under the patronage of the Catholic Monarchs to care for Córdoba’s sick and poor. After the hospital closed in 1837, the building underwent several renovations and became a centre for cultural institutions.

Over the decades, the museum expanded its collection through donations, acquisitions, and transfers from religious institutions. Its shared location with the Museo Julio Romero de Torres makes Plaza del Potro one of the city's most important cultural hubs.

The museum’s architecture is of special note: peaceful courtyards filled with orange trees, elegant galleries, and a striking Baroque staircase with a carved wooden ceiling create an inspiring setting for the artworks displayed inside.

Things to See and Do in Museo de Bellas Artes de Córdoba

The museum's collection spans from the medieval period to the modern era, with a particularly strong emphasis on Andalusian Baroque painting. Highlights include works by major Spanish artists such as Goya, Murillo, Zurbarán, Valdés Leal, and Antonio del Castillo, as well as pieces by Alejo Fernández and the renowned Córdoba-born brothers Rafael and Julio Romero de Torres.

Visitors can also admire an excellent selection of sculptures from the 17th and 19th centuries, with notable works by Juan de Mesa and Mateo Inurria — two artists who deeply shaped the sculptural traditions of Andalusia.

The museum is organised across two floors, each with themed rooms:

Ground floor:

  • Room IV: Baroque art
  • Room V: 18th and 19th-century art
  • Room VI: 20th-century art

Upper floor:

  • Room I: Drawings and prints
  • Room II: Medieval art
  • Room III: Mannerist art

Beyond the galleries, the building itself invites exploration. The courtyard, planted with orange trees, and the Baroque staircase with its finely carved wooden ceiling are architectural highlights in their own right.

How to Get to the Museo de Bellas Artes de Córdoba

The museum is located in Plaza del Potro, very close to the Guadalquivir River and easily reached from central Córdoba. The nearest major airports are Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport and Seville Airport, which provide regular connections to domestic and international destinations. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Córdoba on Booking.com.

For rail travellers, Córdoba's AVE high-speed train station links the city with Madrid, Seville, Málaga, and beyond. From the station, it is about a 20–25 minute walk to Plaza del Potro. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If travelling by car, follow the signs to Córdoba’s old town and park in one of the public garages nearby, as the museum sits within a pedestrian-friendly area. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Museo de Bellas Artes de Córdoba

  • Best time to visit Museo de Bellas Artes: Weekday mornings for a peaceful experience.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Affordable, with reduced rates for EU citizens on certain days.
  • Opening hours: Typically closed on Mondays; check seasonal schedules.
  • Official website: Check Córdoba’s museum listings for current info.
  • How long to spend: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Accessibility: Some areas accessible; inquire at entrance for details.
  • Facilities: Museum shop; restrooms; shaded courtyards.
  • Photography tip: Capture the orange-tree courtyard framed by the Renaissance walls.
  • Guided tours: Available through various cultural tour providers.
  • Nearby food options: Plenty of tapas bars around Plaza del Potro and Paseo de la Ribera.

Where to Stay close to Museo de Bellas Artes de Córdoba

Consider staying near Plaza del Potro for easy access to both fine arts and local charm. A convenient nearby option is Eurostars Conquistador, close to both the museum and the Mezquita. For boutique character, Hotel Posada de Vallina offers a traditional Andalusian setting. Another excellent choice is Hesperia Córdoba, located just across the river with scenic views.

Is Museo de Bellas Artes de Córdoba Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Museo de Bellas Artes de Córdoba is absolutely worth visiting. Its impressive collection, elegant setting, and focus on Andalusian art offer rich insight into the region's cultural history. Whether you admire Baroque painting, sculpture, or simply enjoy peaceful museum spaces, this institution provides a rewarding and memorable experience.

FAQs for Visiting Museo de Bellas Artes de Córdoba

Where is the museum located?
In Plaza del Potro, beside the Museo Julio Romero de Torres.

What is the highlight of the collection?
Works by Andalusian Baroque masters such as Zurbarán, Murillo, and Valdés Leal.

Is the museum large?
It is mid-sized and easy to explore in about an hour.

Can you visit both museums together?
Yes, they share the same historic building.

Is it suitable for families?
Yes, the peaceful courtyards and varied artworks appeal to visitors of all ages.

Nearby Attractions to Museo de Bellas Artes de Córdoba

The Museo de Bellas Artes de Córdoba appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Córdoba!

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Visiting Museo de Bellas Artes de Córdoba

Hours:

9am-3pm Tue-Sun mid-Jun–mid-Sep, 9am-8pm Tue-Sat & 9am-3pm Sun mid-Sep–mid-Jun

Price:

EU Citizen/other free/€1.50

Address: Plaza del Potro, 1, 14002 Córdoba, Spain
Córdoba: 1 km
Telephone: +34 957 10 36 59

Nearby Attractions

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