Historic building El casón de El Retiro in Madrid

Casón Del Buen Retiro

Casón del Buen Retiro: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Expert Guide to One of Madrid’s Premier Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: The Enduring Legacy of Casón del Buen Retiro

Nestled beside the lush El Retiro Park in the heart of Madrid, the Casón del Buen Retiro is a distinguished testament to Spain’s royal heritage and Baroque artistry. Originally built in the 17th century as the ballroom of the grand Palacio del Buen Retiro, the Casón is one of only two surviving remnants of this once-magnificent complex. Today, it serves as the scholarly and research center of the Museo del Prado, while captivating visitors with the awe-inspiring ceiling fresco by Luca Giordano, “Allegory of the Golden Fleece or Apotheosis of the Spanish Monarchy.” Whether you’re an art lover, history enthusiast, or cultural traveler, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to one of Madrid’s most significant historical sites.

Portrait of Cesáreo María Sáenz y de la Barrera

Historical Overview: From Royal Ballroom to Cultural Landmark

17th-Century Origins and Architectural Significance

Commissioned by King Philip IV and designed by Alonso Carbonel in 1637, the Casón del Buen Retiro formed part of the Buen Retiro Palace, serving as the Salón de Baile (Ballroom) for royal festivities and courtly events. Its Baroque design—marked by a grand vaulted ceiling and upper balconies—reflected the opulence and social customs of Spain’s Golden Age (Museo del Prado; Paisaje de la Luz). Most of the palace complex was lost during the Peninsular War and later urbanization, making the Casón a rare architectural survivor alongside the Salón de Reinos (Citysecreto).

19th-Century Restorations

In the late 19th century, architect Ricardo Velázquez Bosco reconstructed the building’s west façade, reinforcing its monumental presence and ensuring its preservation for future generations (Nomadic Niko).

Artistic Highlight: Luca Giordano’s Monumental Fresco

The crowning jewel of the Casón is Luca Giordano’s 1697 ceiling fresco, “Alegoría del Toisón o Apoteosis de la Monarquía Española,” which dramatically covers the barrel-vaulted ceiling of the main hall. This Baroque masterpiece, bursting with dynamic movement and vivid color, celebrates the might of the Spanish monarchy and the Order of the Golden Fleece (Sotheby’s; Mirador Madrid). The fresco is acclaimed as one of Spain’s greatest Baroque artworks and is a highlight for art historians and visitors alike. Public access to the fresco is typically granted during guided tours, which focus on the hall’s history and Giordano’s artistic vision (Lonely Planet).

The Casón Today: Prado Museum Study Center and Library

A Hub for Art Scholarship

Since the late 20th century, the Casón del Buen Retiro has functioned as the library and study center of the Museo Nacional del Prado (Nomadic Niko). Its library houses more than 150,000 volumes related to art, including rare books and manuscripts, supporting advanced research in European and Spanish painting (Mirador Madrid). The Luca Giordano Reading Room, beneath the famed fresco, offers a quiet space for study and reflection, with modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and power outlets.

Academic Access and Educational Programs

The Casón is open to researchers, students, and the public for reference work. Free entry to the library requires advance reservation, and materials are for on-site consultation only. The building also hosts occasional bibliographical exhibitions, academic conferences, and guided tours—most often aimed at university groups, but sometimes available to the public through special arrangements (Museo del Prado).

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Opening Hours (Library and Study Center)

Regular (Jan 16–May 31, Oct 1–Dec 15):
- Monday & Wednesday: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm (materials until 4:30 pm)
- Tuesday & Thursday: 8:30 am – 2:30 pm (materials until 2:00 pm)
- Friday: 8:30 am – 2:00 pm (materials until 1:30 pm)
Limited (Jun 1–Sep 30, Dec 16–Jan 15, Holy Week):
- Monday to Friday: 8:30 am – 2:00 pm (materials until 1:30 pm)

Always verify current hours before your visit, as schedules may occasionally change.

Tickets and Admission

Library and Study Center: Free entry for all visitors; advance reservation required (Museo del Prado).
Guided Tours: Typically free, with a focus on the main hall and fresco. Tours are limited and require early booking at the Prado’s “Educación” desk or via email (Mirador Madrid).
Prado Museum General Admission: €15 (includes Casón access during special exhibitions), with discounts for students, seniors, and free admission for visitors under 18 and EU residents under 25 (Museo del Prado).

Accessibility

The Casón is fully accessible, with step-free entry, elevators, and adapted restrooms. Visitors with reduced mobility can request assistance in advance (Evendo).

Location and Getting There

Address: Calle Alfonso XII, 28, Madrid
Transport: Metro Line 2 (“Retiro” or “Banco de España”), multiple bus lines, and nearby public parking (Wanderlog)
Nearby Attractions: Retiro Park, Prado Museum, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, Reina Sofía Museum

The Casón in Context: UNESCO Heritage and Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art

Situated within the UNESCO-listed “Landscape of Arts and Sciences,” the Casón del Buen Retiro stands among Madrid’s most important cultural institutions, alongside the Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza, and Reina Sofía museums (Nomadic Niko). Its proximity to El Retiro Park—Madrid’s cherished green space—enhances its role as a bridge between art, history, and urban life (Madrid Tourist).

What to Expect: Visitor Experience and Highlights

Atmosphere: Quiet, scholarly environment—ideal for art study and reflection.
Fresco Viewing: The highlight is the Luca Giordano ceiling fresco. Access is usually via guided tours; check availability in advance.
Library Resources: Extensive art reference collections, including rare books and digital services.
Events: Occasional exhibitions, cultural programming, and academic conferences.
Facilities: Cloakroom, accessible restrooms, and a small gift shop.

Suggested Visuals:

Casón exterior with El Retiro Park in the background (alt: “Casón del Buen Retiro and El Retiro Park”)
Luca Giordano ceiling fresco (alt: “Baroque ceiling fresco at Casón del Buen Retiro”)
Reading room interior (alt: “Prado Museum library—Luca Giordano Reading Room”)

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Reserve in Advance: Book guided tours or library access ahead of time.
Peak Times: Weekday mornings are quieter; weekends and special events may see more visitors.
Photography: Permitted in public areas, but restricted in exhibition spaces—observe posted signs.
Nearby Dining: No café onsite, but plenty of restaurants and picnic spots in and around El Retiro Park.
Weather: Madrid is very warm in summer—dress lightly, use sun protection, and stay hydrated (Madrid Traveller).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need a separate ticket for Casón del Buen Retiro?
A: Library access is free with advance reservation. General Prado tickets include Casón entry during special events and exhibitions.

Q: Can I visit the fresco without a guided tour?
A: The fresco is usually accessible only with a guided tour; check tour availability in advance.

Q: Are there guided tours for tourists?
A: Most tours are aimed at university groups, but some public tours are occasionally offered—early inquiry is advised.

Q: Is the site accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with full step-free access and facilities for those with reduced mobility.

Q: Can I borrow books from the library?
A: No, the library is for reference only; materials must be consulted onsite.

Nearby Attractions and Cultural Pairings

Maximize your Madrid experience by combining your Casón visit with:

El Retiro Park: Enjoy sculptures, gardens, and lakes (Explorial).
The Prado Museum: Explore world-class collections just a short walk away.
The Parterre Gardens: Adjacent to the Casón, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Thyssen-Bornemisza and Reina Sofía Museums: Complete the Golden Triangle of Art.

Internal and External Links

Conclusion: Discover Madrid’s Royal Past and Artistic Brilliance

The Casón del Buen Retiro stands as both a monument to Spain’s royal legacy and a vibrant center for art scholarship. Its breathtaking Baroque fresco, scholarly resources, and tranquil setting next to El Retiro Park make it an essential stop for anyone exploring Madrid’s cultural heritage. Plan your visit by confirming opening hours and booking tours in advance, and enrich your itinerary with nearby artistic and historical landmarks. For more tips, guides, and up-to-date event information, download the Audiala app and connect with us on social media.