Are you a fan of modern art and Spanish modern art, in particular? Traveling to Madrid? We'll if you're planning to holiday in Madrid, Spain then a trip to the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia (or Queen Sofia Museum) is a must. It contains a collection from such masters as Picasso, Solana, Miro and other Spanish artists.

The museum has only been around a little over 15 years but it is housed in an 18th century building which is not common for a museum that is dedicated to modern art. It is located not far from the popular Prado museum and the decor mixes old with new. The transparent elevators give you a grand view of Madrid on the way to the beginning of your art viewing itinerary.

The modern collection contained in over 46,000 square yards of exhibit space covers works of art dating from the late 19th century to more contemporary pieces. Not only is there a wide but there are several other mediums on display including porcelain, glass and pottery.

The 20's and 30's Solana pieces near the elevators are sure to amaze the art buff. The works include The Chorus Girls and The Meeting of the Pharmacy. Also from the 20's and 30's is work by Miro including Man with a Pipe, Fleur, and Femme et Oiseau Dans La Nuit. Though he was French, they were painted in Barcelona and are a proud piece of Spanish art history.

Dali is perhaps one of the most widely know artists of modern Spanish art. His painting are impressionable to say the least; whether you think they're bizarre or intriguing, you're sure to be amazed. On display is a wide array of his work including Still Life by the Light of the Moon and stylized realism of the Crucifixion paintings.

Picasso is another Spanish artist that pops into your head when you think of Spanish modern art. There are some examples of his lesser known work that will surprise even Picasso fans. Before his modern surrealism, he was a young artist painting in academic style so make sure and take in The First Communion. The difference in style to his later and more popular work will amaze you.

There is also plenty of more ?standard? Picasso art that is typified by his cubist style. This includes Guernica which is inspired from the Nazi bombing of the town of Guernica.

Complete your visit to the fantastic museum with a trip to the caf? and gift shop for some nourishment and some unique shopping.