ABOVE: MEAM – Museum of European Modern Art.
By Kevin White
Today we will talk about art that has no time limits, and about the cultural heritage of the world, which everyone dreams of visiting. Our selection is the top 10 most interesting and popular museums in Europe, from world-famous to newly created ones. Classics and modernity are closely intertwined in amazing exhibitions from which it is impossible to tear yourself away.
BCN Picasso Museum and MEAM in Barcelona
One of the largest collections of works by the famous Picasso is in his museum in Barcelona. It is still one of the most popular museums in Catalonia. The five medieval palaces in the Gothic style, in which the museum is located, are breathtaking and impressive. The exhibition was opened and operated in 1963 by the artist's friend Sabartes, at that time there were 574 works by Picasso. Five years later, the museum was replenished with more than 1,000 works of the artist, which he donated after the death of his friend.
Another, modern figurative art is vividly presented in the form of MEAM – Museum of European Modern Art. This is a relatively new and creative way of looking at things. The exposition is located in the old city courtyard in the palace Palau Gomis, which is almost next to the Picasso Museum. Not everyone understands the genre of art yet. But those who are ready to learn about aesthetics in their natural form are happy to visit the institution.
Vatican museums and GNAM in Rome
Vatican Museums is a place where some of the world's most important collections are kept. Here you can see everything from ancient Egyptian art to modern art. Rooms with Raphael's masterpieces are presented separately. And the Sistine Chapel is on the list of everyone who comes to Rome and wants to visit its best places.
But the Galleria nazionale d'arte moderna e contemporanea is considered a real artistic treasury of Rome. More than 20,000 exclusive works are stored here – paintings, sculptures, and installations that you will not see anywhere else. Among the authors are local and foreign artists such as Monet, Degas, Yukeru, Pollock, Rodin, and others.
Rijksmuseum and Moco Museum in Amsterdam
Rijksmuseum 2015 became the European Museum of the World. This is the national Dutch museum, within the walls of which masterpieces of graphics, sculptures, and decorative arts are preserved. Here you can admire the collection of the golden age of Dutch painting by such famous authors as Vermeer and Rembrandt. Constant excursions and visits to the museum testify to the high interest of tourists in learning about Dutch culture and art.
If you have thoroughly enjoyed classical art, then we advise you to go to Museum Square in Amsterdam and visit the Museum of Modern Contemporary – MoCo. This is an exquisite world of modern art within the walls of a private mansion museum. Such modern brush masters as Banksy, Andy Warhol, Kaws and others have the honor of exhibiting their works here.
Kunsthistorisches Museum and Wien Mumok in Vienna
The Art and History Museum (Kunsthistorisches Museum) is considered the Austrian Louvre in terms of its importance. It is the largest art museum in Vienna and one of the largest museums in the world. Famous and diverse works of Western European art are stored here. Since the museum has been operating since 1889, it is under the protection of the Ministry of Culture and is the property of the state.
An interesting place for tourists is Museum Moderner Kunst Stiftung Ludwig Wien or MUMOK. This is the museum of modern art of the Ludwig Foundation, which is part of the Museum Quarter and has several underground floors. The basis of the exposition is the collection of Irena and Peter Ludwig, which was previously based in the Liechtenstein court.
Louvre Foundation and Louis Vuitton in Paris
Not much can be said about the Louvre. This is one of the most famous museums in the world, the exhibition consists of more than 300 thousand exhibits. A few years ago, a record number of visitors was recorded here – more than 10 million per year. So everyone who has visited Paris must visit the Louvre.
However, there are other, perhaps not so famous, but no less interesting places. For example, FLV Foundation Louis Vuitton. Rather, this museum is well-known, but in its circles of connoisseurs. The project was created to popularize art, both at the national and international levels. Exhibitions of contemporary art are regularly held here. This place is definitely worth a visit to expand your horizons. What is the design of the building designed by Frank Gehry. You must see it!
The museum is built in the form of a sailing ship, and architect Frank Gehry used wood, glass, and steel for its construction. It is an impressive architectural monument that represents freedom and luxury, democracy and beauty.
Kevin White is a freelance blogger. He’s got experience in writing quality pieces on various topics. You may feel free to reach out to him at GuestpostingNinja@gmail.com for collaboration suggestions.