Nudes, self-portraits and sketches adorn the house and studio of one of Spain’s greatest sculptors. Visit its perch on a hill by the river.
The Victorio Macho Museum comprises a comprehensive collection of its namesake artist’s drawings and self-portraits. Crowning the top of a hill in Toledo’s historic center, the museum has unobstructed views of the Tagus River and its surrounding terrain. Learn about the 20th-century sculptor from Toledo and how he influenced modern Spanish art.
Arrive at the museum and appreciate its intriguing façade, blending a traditional redbrick layout with lines of decorative stones. It stands on the edge of a cliff, providing stunning views of the verdant valley and river.
Enter the house and inspect the selection of sculptures decorating the rooms of Macho’s former house and studio, which he donated to the Spanish people upon his death. Among his best works stored here are La Madre, El Torso Gitano and El Marino Vasco. Check out the self-portraits to get a sense of how the artist saw himself. The drawings on display also cover rural workers and female nudes.
Step down into the crypt to admire the sculpture of the artist’s brother Marcelo lying down. Study the terracotta models and bronze reliefs of religious figures. For a change of scenery, head into the garden and marvel at the works of art on the balustrade.
In the auditorium watch the film about the city of Toledo. Victorio Macho chose this spot as his house and studio in 1953.
Note that the site opens Monday through Friday from morning until evening, with a break for afternoon siesta. Admission is free for kids, while adults pay a fee.
The Victorio Macho Museum is in the southern part of the old Jewish Quarter in the southwestern corner of the city center. Take a bus to the stop on the adjacent street, next to the Tagus River. Visit some of the surrounding highlights, such as the Museo Sefardí, the Paseo del Tránsito park and the El Greco Museum.
