Museo Cerralbo is the well preserved 19th century mansion of Enrigue de Aguilera y Gamboa. Bequeathed to the city of Madrid and made into a museum, a visit here is like stepping into a time capsule and viewing the life of a late 19th century antiquity hunter and art lover. It is a very impressive place to visit.

Note: Be aware of the limited opening times - 9.30am to 3pm (M,T,W,TH,F,ST) with additional evening hours 5-8pm on Thursdays only. Sunday opening times are 10am to 3pm.

Visits are on a self tour basis. Brochures are given when you purchase ticket, detailing th 28 different rooms you can see in the mansion. You can also download a room guide from the museum website as well. English version is available.

You can also avail of an audio guide (€2 each) if you want a more detailed and comprehensive visit to the museum. There is a path you follow and staff will help direct you in the intended direction so you manage to see all the rooms in the correct order.

Each room is richly filled with beautiful, interesting and often eclectic arrays of photographs, paintings, drawings, engravings, books, medals, sculptures, medals, candlesticks, decorative furniture, clocks, armoury, coins, ceramics and tapestries amongst other interesting items.

Most memorable is the main staircase. You will want to make for a few photos here. The main floor armoury collection is mighty impressive and we enjoyed viewing the paintings by the likes of El Greco, Goya and Ribera in the three main floor gallery rooms. The main floor ballroom is quite enchanting to see as well.

Overall, you can easily spend 60-90 minutes browsing around and looking into the various rooms at the Museo Cerralbo. Or stay longer if you are enjoying the many nice things to see here. If short on time, a 30-45 minute visit will still be a rewarding experience.

Note: Photography is allowed (no flash and no selfie-sticks) in the museum.