The building and property are even a work of art with beautiful gardens and early 19th century architecture. The large part of the collection was gathered by Spanish nobility and has a heavy emphasis of the Spanish masters Goya, Vel?zquez and El Greco. Apart from these works of art there is also work by other European masters including Dutch, French and German; many of the works acquired by Spanish conquests.

If you're an art connoisseur then you'll want to take at least a day to enjoy all that the museum has to offer. Start on the ground floor with Italian works by Botticelli, del Sarto, and Corregio. Move on to works by possibly the first surrealist, Bosch. His works are amazingly modern and surreal for a 16th century artist. The next floor has Flemish art including work by Rubens and van Dyck.

The impressive Spanish collection is the highlight and works by Goya and El Greco are numerous. Goya painted in many different styles and on display is a full range.

Even if you're not too keen on museums there is plenty to appreciate and there are many ?must sees?. There is La Anunciacion by Fra Angelico and Titian's Venus. Murillo's three Immaculate Conceptions are a must see as well as Ruben's Garden of Love and Three Graces. Goya's Saturn Devouring One of His Sons as well as the clothed Maja and Naked Maja are some of the most popular pieces of . Also popular is El Greco's John the Baptist and The Resurrection which are painted in the artist's unique style. The museum is constructing a new wing (delayed due to recent disagreements) to display much of its collection that is in storage. These include works by Zurbaran, Pereda and many others.

Before you go check out the museum's website to research parts of its collection that interests you the most. Since there is so much to see, you might want to see your ?must sees? and then spend the rest of the time strolling around if time permits. The website will also have the days and hours of operation; make sure you don't plan a visit on a day it's closed.

Whether or not you're an art buff, you have to visit The Museo del Prado if you're in Madrid. With the beautiful grounds, early 19th century architecture and huge art collection you won't be disappointed.