Visiting the city of Madrid provides one with the opportunity to experience some of the best historic and cultural attractions in Spain, and indeed in Europe. Visited by almost three million people annually, the Prado museum is an art gallery and museum which is home to an absolutely stunning collection of art. The building was created in the 18th century at the request of King Charles the 3rd who wanted to use it as a National History Cabinet, although the decision was later made to use the facility as for its current purpose. The building is expansive and the design incorporates a large number of windows and statues which provide it with a distinct and unmistakable appearance. It took a few decades after completion for the museum and gallery to be opened to the public, but once it was in 1817 it proved to be an instant hit and its popularity has continued to grow ever since.Some examples of artists who have work on display here are El Greco, who is one of the most important figures from the Renaissance era, Romanesque and Gothic artists Fernando Gallego and Jaime Serra, Italian artists Tintoretto and Boticelli and Dutch artists Vermeer and Frans Hals amongst hundreds of others. The art work is split into different artistic eras as well into nationalities, making it a true showcase of how art has developed around the continent over the years.The Prado has such an extensive collection of works that not all of them can be displayed at the same time. They are rotated sporadically meaning that every time you visit there is a good chance you will see something new. You can access the El Prado museum from Tuesday through to Sunday each week from the hours of 9am till 8pm.

Since 2006 Holiday Velvet offers accommodation in Madrid.