Let's start our artistic journey with two exceptional museums that owe their genesis to the collecting passion of the Spanish aristocracy. The first is the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, which, despite being part of the so-called Golden Triangle of Art, is still overshadowed by the Prado or Reina Sofía. This place is a true gem among Madrid's museums, offering an extremely rich and diverse collection of European art from the 13th to the 20th centuries. The museum is housed in the neoclassical Villahermosa Palace and opened to the public in 1992. The collection, originally assembled by Baron Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza and his family, includes works by such masters as Caravaggio, Murillo, Velázquez and Holbein. What sets this museum apart is the opportunity to trace the evolution of European art over the centuries in one place. Visitors here can admire both medieval religious works and avant-garde paintings from the early 20th century. It is worth noting that the museum offers free entry on Mondays from 12:00 to 16:00, which is great for thrifty tourists. Visitor reviews highlight the museum's friendly atmosphere and lack of crowds, allowing visitors to savor the art in peace. Another treasure worth discovering is the Lázaro Galdiano Museum. This place, though lesser known, offers an equally fascinating journey through art history. The museum is housed in the former residence of José Lázaro Galdiano, a collector and editor who donated his collection to the Spanish state after his death in 1947. The collection includes works from antiquity to the 20th century and is extremely diverse, ranging from paintings to weapons, ceramics, jewelry, textiles and sculptures. The building is a work of art in itself, and its richly decorated interiors transport visitors back to the glory days of the Spanish aristocracy. This museum is less crowded than Madrid's main attractions, allowing for a more intimate and peaceful experience with art. Look out for the ballroom and the main dining room, which are stunning in their splendor. Both museums offer a unique opportunity to learn not only about art, but also about the tastes and collecting passions of the Spanish aristocracy. These are places where the history of art is intertwined with the history of the families that for generations amassed these extraordinary collections.

Continuing our tour of Madrid's lesser-known museums, it is worth directing our steps to places that offer an unusual look at Spanish history and culture. One such place is Madrid's National Archaeological Museum, which, despite its stature, often escapes the attention of tourists focused on the art galleries. Housed in the same building as the National Library, this impressive museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of the Iberian Peninsula from prehistory to the 19th century. The museum's collection includes not only archaeological artifacts, but also showcases the evolution of humans and related species. This is a great place for history buffs and families with children alike, who can learn about human history here in an accessible way. Ticket prices are very affordable (3 euros), making the museum accessible to everyone. Another place worth visiting is the Museo Cerralbo. This remarkable museum is housed in the former home of the Cerralbo family and offers a glimpse into the life of the Spanish aristocracy of the late 19th century. The richly decorated interiors, especially the ballroom and main dining room, transport visitors back in time. The museum has an impressive collection of paintings, as well as military artifacts such as swords and armor. This place is often described by visitors as the 'hidden pearl of Madrid,' stunning in its wealth of detail. Admission to the museum is very affordable, making it an attractive option for frugal travelers. A third museum that offers a unique experience is the Museum of Romanticism in Madrid. This place is a true trip back in time to the Romantic era. The museum is housed in a meticulously restored mansion, where each of the 26 chambers tells a separate story. Visitors here can not only admire the exhibits, but also feel the atmosphere of 19th-century Madrid. The museum offers a comprehensive guide in the form of a booklet, which helps to understand the purpose of each room and the history of the collected objects. Of special note is the garden, where you can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee after the tour. This is the perfect place for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the modern city for a while and immerse themselves in the romantic past. Each of these museums offers a unique look at Spanish history and culture, presenting it from a less obvious perspective. They are places that give you a better understanding of the historical and cultural context in which Spanish art developed. By visiting these museums, you can not only expand your knowledge, but also experience the atmosphere of bygone eras in a way that is difficult to find in more popular tourist attractions.

To conclude our tour of Madrid's lesser-known museums, it is worth noting the places that present contemporary and avant-garde art. Although Madrid is famous for its classical art collections, the city also has much to offer lovers of modern art forms. One such place is the National Museum of the Queen Sofia Art Center, which, while perhaps not the least known museum in Madrid, is still overshadowed by the Prado. This museum is a true paradise for lovers of 20th and 21st century art. Pablo Picasso's famous 'Guernica' is located here, but that's not the only reason to visit. The museum has an impressive collection of works by artists such as Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró and Juan Gris. Importantly, the museum offers free tours between 7 and 9 pm, which is great for thrifty tourists. However, it is worth remembering that more visitors can be expected during these hours. The museum is appreciated for its architecture - modern interiors contrast with the historic building, creating an interesting space for the presentation of contemporary art. Another place worth noting is the CaixaForum in Madrid. It's a cultural center that, while not a typical museum, regularly hosts world-class contemporary art exhibitions. The building itself is a work of art - futuristic architecture with a vertical garden on the facade attracts the attention of passersby. CaixaForum is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to art, combining art exhibitions with multimedia shows, concerts and lectures. It's the perfect place for those looking for art beyond the traditional museum exhibit. Note the changing temporary exhibitions, which often feature the work of established contemporary artists. Finally, it's worth mentioning Espacio SOLO, which, while not as well-known as the previous venues, offers an extremely interesting experience for contemporary art lovers. It is a private collection of contemporary art and new media, presented in a modern, interactive space. Exhibitions at Espacio SOLO often combine visual art with new technologies, creating an immersive experience for visitors. It's worth noting that tours are conducted in small groups with a guide, allowing for a deeper understanding of the works on display. These three venues show that Madrid is not only a classical art, but also a vibrant center of contemporary art. By visiting them, you can see how the Spanish capital combines its rich artistic history with modern art trends. It's ideal for those who want to see how art is evolving in the 21st century and how Madrid fits into global art trends. Whether you're a lover of the classical or the avant-garde, Madrid offers an extraordinary wealth of art experiences that go far beyond the most popular tourist attractions.