Museo Do Reloxo Da Coruña

Museo Do Reloxo Da Coruña: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide to A Coruña’s Clock Museum

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of A Coruña’s historic district, the Museo Do Reloxo Da Coruña stands as a singular destination for anyone fascinated by the science and artistry of timekeeping. Located within the stately Palacio Municipal de María Pita, this unique museum offers an immersive journey through the history of horology, featuring an impressive array of clocks and watches dating from the 18th to the 20th centuries. Whether you are a horology enthusiast, history buff, or a curious traveler, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to plan your visit—from practical information about visiting hours and tickets to collection highlights, accessibility, and tips for exploring nearby historical sites. For the most up-to-date details, be sure to check the Museo Do Reloxo Da Coruña official website and other trusted resources (WhichMuseum).

Museum Overview and Cultural Significance
Location, Directions, and Accessibility
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Collection Highlights and Visitor Experience
Practical Tips for Visitors
Nearby Attractions in A Coruña
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Contact Information
Conclusion
References

Museum Overview and Cultural Significance

The Museo Do Reloxo Da Coruña is dedicated to the preservation, study, and exhibition of timekeeping devices—celebrating both their technical ingenuity and artistic beauty. The museum’s collection spans from the 18th to the 20th centuries, featuring over 80 original clocks and watches, including table clocks, longcase (grandfather) clocks, wall clocks, and mantel clocks. Many of these pieces originated from England, France, Germany, Holland, and Spain, reflecting the evolution of European horology and its influence on daily life.

Notable highlights include clocks crafted by renowned makers such as Julien Royal, personal clockmaker to King Louis XV of France, and Xavier Méndez de Saavedra. The museum also showcases period furniture, pre-philatelic marks of Galicia, and a fine art gallery, providing a rich contextual backdrop (Paxinas Galegas).

Beyond its remarkable collection, the museum operates as an educational hub, hosting special events and welcoming group and school visits by arrangement. Housed within the historic Palacio Municipal de María Pita, the museum embodies A Coruña’s civic pride and commitment to cultural preservation.

Location, Directions, and Accessibility

Address:
Palacio Municipal de María Pita, Praza de María Pita 1, 1º, 15001 A Coruña, Spain
(Concello da Coruña)
Public Transport:
The museum is easily accessible by numerous city bus lines (1, 1A, 2, 2A, 3, 3A, 5, 7, 17, 23, 23A), with stops near the Plaza de María Pita. Taxis are widely available (Paxinas Galegas).
Parking:
There is no dedicated museum parking, but several public garages are available nearby in the city center and port area.
Accessibility:
The museum is located on the first floor of the City Hall and is accessible by elevator. The building and exhibits are generally accessible for visitors with reduced mobility, but it is advisable to contact the museum in advance for specific needs.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday (except public holidays): 17:00–19:00
- Closed on weekends, during official municipal events, and when the municipal Christmas nativity scene is displayed
  (Concello da Coruña; Paxinas Galegas)
Admission:
- Free entry for all visitors
- Advance booking is not required
Group Visits:
- School and group visits are welcome, but must be arranged in advance by contacting the municipal protocol department at (+34) 981 184 200.
Guided Tours:
- There are currently no regular public guided tours, but special events may occasionally include them.

Collection Highlights and Visitor Experience

The Setting

The museum’s galleries occupy the elegant first floor of the Palacio Municipal de María Pita, a historic building dating from 1904. The setting features high ceilings, ornate architectural details, and windows overlooking the plaza, providing a refined backdrop for the clock displays.

The Collection

Chronological Range:
Clocks and watches from the 18th to 20th centuries, illustrating the evolution of European horology.
Geographical Scope:
Pieces from England, France, Germany, Holland, and Spain, reflecting a variety of technical innovations and decorative styles.
Types of Clocks:
Table clocks, longcase (grandfather) clocks, wall clocks, mantel clocks, and notable examples such as:
- The clock of Xavier Méndez de Saavedra
- A timepiece by Julien Royal, clockmaker to King Louis XV of France
Complementary Exhibits:
Period furniture, pre-philatelic Galician postal marks, and municipal fine art works round out the experience (gl.wikipedia).

Visitor Flow

Self-Guided Visits:
The museum is designed for self-paced exploration. Labels are in Spanish and Galician; non-Spanish speakers may wish to use a translation app.
Photography:
Photography without flash is allowed, but flash and tripods may be restricted.
Facilities:
Restrooms are available within the City Hall. There is no café or shop, but the plaza and surrounding streets offer plenty of dining and shopping options.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Best Time to Visit:
Arrive at opening for a quieter experience. The museum may be busier later in the afternoon or during school group visits.
Duration:
Allow 30–60 minutes to explore the collection. Horology enthusiasts may wish to stay longer.
Accessibility:
Contact the museum in advance for detailed accessibility information if needed.

Nearby Attractions in A Coruña

Take advantage of the museum’s central location by exploring other city highlights:

Plaza de María Pita: The city’s main square, honoring the local heroine.
Ciudad Vieja (Old Town): Medieval streets, Romanesque churches, and historic mansions.
Tower of Hercules: World’s oldest working Roman lighthouse and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Museo de Belas Artes: Works by Goya, Rubens, and Galician artists.
Casa Museo Picasso: Picasso’s early home in A Coruña.
Castelo de San Antón: A 16th-century castle and archaeological museum.

(Concello da Coruña; WhichMuseum)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the Museo do Reloxo da Coruña visiting hours?
A: Monday to Friday, 17:00–19:00. Closed on weekends, public holidays, and during certain municipal events.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, admission is free for all visitors.

Q: Can I book a guided tour?
A: Group visits can be arranged in advance. No regular public guided tours are offered.

Q: Is the museum accessible for visitors with reduced mobility?
A: Yes, the building is accessible by elevator, but contact the museum for specific requirements.

Q: Are photography and videography allowed?
A: Photography without flash is allowed; tripods and flash are restricted.

Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: The museum is close to Plaza de María Pita, Old Town, Tower of Hercules, and other major sites.

Contact Information

Address:
Praza de María Pita 1, 1º, 15001 A Coruña, Spain
Telephone:
(+34) 981 184 226
(+34) 981 184 200 (Ext. 10170 and 10086 for group visits)
Official Website:
Museo dos Reloxos – Concello da Coruña

Conclusion

The Museo Do Reloxo Da Coruña offers an enriching experience for all, from history lovers to families and curious travelers. Its diverse clock collection, free admission, and central location make it an essential cultural stop in A Coruña. Plan your visit, explore the artistic and scientific marvels of horology, and take time to discover the many historical treasures nearby. For updates, group bookings, and accessibility details, always consult the official museum website before you go.

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