Museo Naval (Naval Museum), Madrid

The Naval Museum, with its copper-tinted glass structure added to the Ministry of Defence building in 1977, showcases 18 impressive exhibition halls that trace Spain's rich history of seafaring over the centuries. Alongside a vast collection of meticulously crafted scale models of ships from different eras, you can explore a wide range of artifacts including figureheads, amphorae, globes, astrolabes, sextants, compasses, and maps. The museum also features various weapons used during Spain's presence in the Americas.

An intriguing highlight is a 1500 world map, the first to depict the territories of the New World, commissioned by the Catholic Monarchs Isabel and Fernando. Another notable exhibit is a piece of tree trunk, believed to be the spot where the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés rested after "La Noche Triste" (The Sad Night) in 1520, when he and his men escaped from Montezuma's Aztec capital, Tenochtitlán.

The museum has recently undergone renovations to enhance its accessibility to the public. As you walk along Calle Montalbán, you can admire the main section of the building, known as the Cuartel General de la Armada, which serves as the headquarters of the Spanish Navy Ministry. Its elaborate façade showcases exquisite Portuguese Manueline decorations.

Why You Should Visit:
The museum's chronological arrangement offers a fascinating insight into the progression of ship design, showcased through an extensive collection of ship models. As you explore the exhibition halls, you'll also discover the evolution of weaponry, navigational equipment, and portraits of significant figures in the history of the Spanish navy.
While most of the explanations are provided in Spanish, you have the option to rent an audio guide device that provides comprehensive explanations in English.
There is also a gift shop area at the entrance with a variety of items that seem well-priced and of better-than-average quality.

Tips:
If you're just looking to get a general overview of the museum, you can walk through the entire collection in approximately an hour. However, if you wish to delve deeper into the exhibits and take your time exploring, it's recommended to allocate 2 to 3 hours for your visit. Keep in mind that although there is no admission fee, a donation of €3 is suggested to support the museum's operations and maintenance. It's also important to have an identification with you, as it is required for entry into the museum.