Five Spanish Museums You can't Miss

Many visits to Madrid, Spain, encompass visits to historic sites, as well as to the beaches and the gorgeous countryside. However, a number of world class museums are scatted around the city that visitors should take the time to see as well. It seems there is a different museum for each different interest.

Perhaps the most famous museum in all of Spain is The Museo del Prado. It contains thousands of paintings from many of the world's finest artists, such as Goya, El Greco, Raphael and Botticelli. This museum is an absolute must see for lovers of art and culture who are traveling to the country.

The Museo Arqueologico Nacional has a plethora of amazing exhibits and covering many different periods of Spanish history. Many of the artifacts in the museum have come from churches and monasteries around the country. Interestingly, there are also Roman and Islamic artifacts to be found at the museum as well.

The Museo del Ejercito, or the Military Museum, has many wonderful artifacts from the Spanish army that have been preserved over the ages. These relics include full suits of armor, a piece from a cross that Columbus took with him on his trip to what he hoped would be India (but turned out to be America), and even La Tizona a sword that is said to have been wielded by none other than El Cid.

Akin to the Military Museum is the Museo Naval, a museum dedicated to the Spanish Navy. It houses a number of interesting artifacts including what many say is the most popular piece in the museum - a map drawn by the hand of the first mate of the Santa Maria, one of Columbus' famous ships.

One of the unique museums in Madrid is the Museum of the Americas. It is unique because it traces the history of the development and settling of the Americas. The museum covers a period of history from before Columbus arrived, all the way through to today. It provides an interesting look at the settlement of the Americas that you are unlikely to find at other museums.

The above are just a few of the many wonderful museums found throughout Madrid. Many different areas of interest are covered, from archaeology to art, and everyone is sure to find a museum that appeals to them.

After a day of museum hopping, most visitors like to relax at one of the many tapas bars in the areas and make plans for the next day's excursions.