Quinta Del Sordo

Quinta del Sordo Madrid: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Quinta del Sordo occupies a unique place in Madrid’s cultural and historical landscape. Originally the country villa where Francisco de Goya painted his legendary Black Paintings, today the name lives on through both the celebrated masterpieces at the Museo del Prado and a vibrant contemporary cultural center in central Madrid. This detailed guide explores the historical significance of Quinta del Sordo, provides essential visitor information—including hours, ticketing, accessibility—and highlights the thriving creative hub that now bears its name. Whether you’re an art enthusiast eager to view Goya’s work, a history buff, or a traveler seeking Madrid’s creative pulse, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.

For official details on exhibitions, events, and ticketing, consult the Museo del Prado official website and the Quinta del Sordo cultural center site. Further resources on Madrid’s historical sites are available at the Madrid Tourism Official Site.

View of Quinta del Sordo building surrounded by trees

Photograph of Quinta del Sordo estate circa 1900 showing historic architecture and surrounding landscape

Introduction
Historical Background: The Legacy of Quinta del Sordo
Goya’s Black Paintings: Creation, Symbolism, and Legacy
Viewing the Black Paintings at Museo del Prado
Contemporary Quinta del Sordo Cultural Center
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Historical Background: The Legacy of Quinta del Sordo

Originally located in Carabanchel Bajo, Madrid, Quinta del Sordo (the “House of the Deaf Man”) was the rural villa purchased by Francisco de Goya in 1819. Its name came from a previous deaf owner, though Goya himself had become profoundly deaf due to illness. Between 1819 and 1824, Goya retreated here, painting the haunting “Pinturas Negras” (Black Paintings) directly onto the interior walls. These works reflected his deep personal turmoil and the political unrest of post-Napoleonic Spain (Wikipedia; The Vintage News).

The villa itself was demolished in 1909, but the Black Paintings were preserved by transferring them to canvas, securing their legacy at the Museo del Prado (Gato por Madrid).

Goya’s Black Paintings: Creation, Symbolism, and Legacy

Goya’s Black Paintings—14 intense, enigmatic murals—were never intended for public exhibition. They include masterpieces like “Saturn Devouring His Son,” “Witches’ Sabbath,” and “The Dog,” all painted directly onto plaster walls (Anita Louise Art). These works confront themes of madness, despair, and existential dread, representing a radical departure from Goya’s earlier styles and marking a precursor to modern expressionism (On Art and Aesthetics).

Transferred to canvas in the late 19th century, the Black Paintings now reside in the Museo del Prado, captivating viewers and influencing generations of artists.

Viewing the Black Paintings at Museo del Prado

Location, Hours, and Tickets

Address: Calle Ruiz de Alarcón 23, 28014 Madrid, Spain
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00–20:00; Sundays and holidays, 10:00–19:00
Tickets: General admission €15. Discounts for EU citizens under 25, seniors, and free entry at certain times. Purchase tickets online or at the museum.

Accessibility and Visitor Services

The Prado is fully wheelchair accessible and offers services for visitors with disabilities, including accessible entrances, restrooms, and loaner wheelchairs. Audio guides and a mobile app are available, with specific tours focusing on Goya and the Black Paintings.

Getting There

By Metro: Banco de España (Line 2) or Atocha (Line 1)
By Train: Atocha station (long-distance and commuter trains)
By Bus: Multiple lines serve the museum area

Guided Tours and Special Exhibitions

The Prado offers guided tours focused on Goya’s works and the Black Paintings. Special exhibitions may recreate the ambiance of the original villa. Check the museum’s official website for up-to-date schedules and ticketing.

Contemporary Quinta del Sordo Cultural Center

Facilities and Offerings

Located at Calle del Rosario 15-17 in Madrid’s La Latina district, the modern Quinta del Sordo cultural center is a multidisciplinary hub supporting over 70 professionals across visual arts, music, architecture, design, and social innovation (Art Madrid). Facilities include coworking spaces, exhibition halls, workshops, a bookstore, artisan shop, and a café.

The center regularly hosts exhibitions, such as the “Casas Bajas” project, documenting grassroots activism and the self-built communities of southern Madrid (Quinta del Sordo: Casas Bajas; Cadena SER). Collaborative programming explores urban justice, participatory design, and contemporary creative practice.

Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00–20:00; Saturday, 10:00–14:00 (check for holiday variations)
Admission: Free entry. Some workshops, screenings, or events may require advance registration or a fee (e.g., film screenings in the “Cine-Ciudad” series are ~€6).
Tickets: Purchase online via the official website or on-site.

Accessibility and Inclusion

The center is fully wheelchair accessible, with gender-neutral restrooms and a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere (Residencia Universitaria Alicante).

Events, Exhibitions, and Public Programming

Quinta del Sordo’s programming includes:

Art exhibitions: Rotating displays of local and international artists, emphasizing social and urban themes
Workshops & training: Covering art, urbanism, creative writing, and more
Film screenings: Thematic series followed by Q&A sessions
Talks, guided tours, and urban walks: Often led by artists and urban researchers such as La Liminal
Festival collaborations: Participation in city-wide events like Art Madrid and Open House Madrid

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Museo del Prado: Home to the Black Paintings and many other masterpieces
La Latina: Renowned for tapas bars, El Rastro flea market, and local markets
Royal Palace & Plaza Mayor: Within walking distance from Quinta del Sordo
Parque de la Cornisa: Offers panoramic city views and a relaxing atmosphere

Travel Tips:

Check the Quinta del Sordo event calendar before your visit
Book workshops and tours early, as spaces fill quickly
Explore nearby neighborhoods for authentic dining and nightlife
Photography is generally allowed, but check policies for specific exhibitions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I visit the original Quinta del Sordo villa?
A: No, the original villa was demolished in 1909. The Black Paintings now reside at the Museo del Prado.

Q: What are the Quinta del Sordo cultural center’s visiting hours?
A: Monday to Friday, 10:00–20:00; Saturday, 10:00–14:00. Closed on Sundays and public holidays.

Q: Do I need tickets for Quinta del Sordo?
A: General entry is free, but some events and workshops require advance registration or payment.

Q: Is Quinta del Sordo accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the center is fully accessible.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Nearest metro stations are La Latina and Puerta de Toledo; several bus lines serve the area.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Periodic guided tours and urban walks are available—check the official website for schedules.

Q: Can I see Goya’s original Black Paintings at Quinta del Sordo?
A: The originals are at the Museo del Prado. The cultural center honors Goya’s legacy through contemporary programming.

Conclusion

Quinta del Sordo remains a vital symbol of Madrid’s artistic evolution, bridging the past and present. While the original site where Goya painted his Black Paintings has vanished, its legacy endures—both at the Museo del Prado and in the thriving creative hub that cultivates community, dialogue, and innovation. By exploring both, visitors can experience Madrid’s layered history, dynamic culture, and the ongoing power of art to shape society.

For up-to-date schedules, ticketing, and programming, consult the Museo del Prado official site and the Quinta del Sordo cultural center website. Download the Audiala app for personalized cultural tips, and explore related articles on Madrid’s historical and creative landmarks for a richer travel experience.