The 9 best rated Museums in Figueres
Museu de la Tècnica de l'Empordà
The Museum of Technology of Empordà is a fascinating place located in Figueres, where history and technology intertwine through an impressive collection of antique machines. This museum, with an entry fee of only 3€, offers a completely captivating guided tour, led by the friendly owners who share their passion and knowledge about each artifact.
Among the highlights are:
- A prominent collection of typewriters, considered one of the largest in the world.
- Interesting objects spanning from sewing machines to clocks and other mechanisms from past eras.
- The exceptional attention of the owners, who provide detailed and enriching explanations, ensuring every visitor takes away a memorable experience.
- An inviting and family-friendly atmosphere that encourages exploration and learning for all ages.
Undoubtedly, the museum is a hidden gem that deserves to be visited by those wishing for a journey back in time and a glimpse into technological evolution.
Castell de Sant Ferran
The Castell de Sant Ferran, located in Figueres, is an imposing 18th-century fortress, considered one of the largest in Europe. This majestic monument offers visitors a unique experience to learn about its rich history.
Highlights of the visits include:
- Magnificent building with impressive architecture that deserves to be explored.
- Engaging and well-organized guided tours, with guides providing in-depth and entertaining explanations.
- 4x4 tours and boat rides through the water tunnels, allowing access to less accessible corners of the fortress.
- Serene surroundings that ensure a rewarding and relaxing visit.
- Free parking and easy access for all visitors.
- Opportunity to walk around the fortress on well-marked routes.
It is an ideal place for families, friends, and history enthusiasts who wish to enjoy an unforgettable cultural journey, immersing themselves in the fascinating history of this monumental fortification.
Fundación Gala Salvador Dalí
The Gala Salvador Dalí Foundation, located on the Costa Brava, is a must-visit museum that offers a unique immersion into the world of the genius artist Salvador Dalí. This cultural space not only displays his work but also reflects the fusion between the architecture of the old theater and the extraordinary pieces of the artist.
Some of its most notable features include:
- A fascinating surreal experience that transports visitors into Dalí's mind.
- A recommended place for all lovers of art and culture.
- Due to its popularity, it is advisable to book tickets online to avoid long lines and fully enjoy the visit.
Visitors have shared their amazement and gratitude for the experience, noting that this museum is a must in Figueres, perfect for those wishing to delve deeper into Dalí's life and work.
Teatre-Museu Dalí
The Dalí Theatre-Museum (4.5 out of 5 rating on Museumspedia.net), the largest surrealist object in the world, occupies the building of the old Municipal Theater, a 19th century building destroyed at the end of the Civil War. On these ruins, Dalí decided to create his museum.
The different collections of the Gala-Salvador Dalí Foundation include works of art of all kinds: paintings, drawings, sculptures, engravings, installations, holograms, stereoscopies, photographs, etc. Of these, some 1,500 are exhibited at the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres.
Under the name of Dalí Theatre-Museum, three different museum spaces are grouped together that offer visitors a free and personal route through their rooms:
- 1) The Theatre-Museum proper, formed by the old Municipal Theater burned down, which becomes a Theatre-Museum based on the criteria and design of Salvador Dalí himself. This set of spaces integrates a single artistic object in which each element constitutes an inseparable part of the whole.
- 2) The group of rooms resulting from the progressive expansions of the Theatre-Museum, in which Dalí's personal intervention is testimonial or non-existent. In these rooms, numerous works from the artist's legacy, stereoscopic works and installations, anamorphisms as well as the new acquisitions of the Foundation are exhibited.
- 3) The Dalí·Joyas showrooms, opened in 2001, with the thirty-nine gold jewels and precious stones from the old Owen Cheatham collection, two jewels executed at a later time and the previous designs made by the painter.
Apart from the creations of Salvador Dalí, you can also see works by other artists whom the painter invited to exhibit in his Museum, such as Antoni Pitxot and Evarist Vallès, as well as pieces belonging to the painter's private collection, signed by artists such as El Greco, Marià Fortuny, Modest Urgell, Ernest Meissonier, Marcel Duchamp, Gérard Dou and Bouguereau. In different spaces of the Theatre-Museum, works by John De Andrea, Wolf Vostell, Meifrèn and Ernst Fuchs are also presented.
Since the death of Salvador Dalí, in 1989, you can also visit the crypt with his tomb, located in the center of the Museum; this space was remodeled in 1997 to house a collection of gold jewelry designed by the artist.
Museu del Joguet de Catalunya
In the Costa Brava, there are several museums that are ideal for visiting with family. One of the most popular is the one known as the Museu del Joguet de Catalunya, which was inaugurated in 1982.
The building chosen to house this museum was constructed in the mid-18th century. It was a house belonging to an influential baron, later converted into the Hotel París. Eventually, it was opted to transform it into a museum space, which has proven to be a very good decision, as demonstrated by the passage of time.
And it is that annually the Museu del Joguet de Catalunya receives thousands of visitors, although initially it was a private facility. Everything changed when a foundation emerged that, in the late 20th century, decided not only to renovate the facilities but also to adapt them so that all children and adults who visited this space would feel comfortable, having a unique experience.
Ground Floor
This museum has three floors. Upon entering the ground floor, there is a point where information of interest is provided, as well as an area that children of all ages enjoy. We are referring to that space that is designated for children to unleash their creativity and imagination by drawing or coloring.
On the same ground floor, there is another area that deserves special mention. This is an open room where all kinds of activities are organized from time to time. In this case, these are not only intended for the smallest in the house but also for adults. In addition to presentations and workshops, there is a series of exhibitions, which are temporary and do not require any payment. Indeed, they are free.
First Floor
The first floor of the Museu del Joguet de Catalunya is dedicated to showcasing toys that were enjoyed in ancient times. It is striking how well preserved all of them are.
It is common for toys to undergo a certain deterioration, especially when they have many years behind them. However, the toys displayed on the first floor of this museum space seem to show no signs of wear due to the passage of time.
Thanks to how spacious the first floor is, it not only accommodates toy exhibitions. To top it off, there is a playroom that is synonymous with pure fun.
Second Floor
We finish with the last of the floors, which for many visitors is the most spectacular of all. And it's no wonder, as it features a model railway of the analog type that took nearly two decades to construct.
The overhead wire is used for locomotives to travel along a well-thought-out circuit by a train enthusiast: Andreu Costa. Thanks to the maintenance provided by the professionals at the Museu del Joguet de Catalunya, it continues to operate perfectly to this day.
The various sections that are scenically represented at scale are especially surprising for their high level of realism, which is the result of dedicating a lot of time to placing details like trees, hills, factories, and more.
Collection
The collection of the Museu del Joguet de Catalunya is spectacular in every sense. Even those who are not toy lovers cannot help but be surprised when contemplating the various elements that are part of it, especially those with great historical value. A clear example is the teddy bear that Salvador Dalí used to play with, a prominent artistic figure closely related to the Costa Brava.
Visitors admiring the collection experience two distinct sensations. The first is nostalgic, as many adults remember those toys they enjoyed decades ago. The children themselves also show amazement at seeing how their parents and grandparents had fun with the various elements they see in the museum.
On the other hand, the sensation of being cultured is also very present in each visitor. This is not surprising, as throughout the tour of the various floors of the Museu del Joguet de Catalunya, one can internalize the advances not only of a scientific nature but also at a technical level, which occurred over many years.
The richness of the collection that is part of the museum space and how well preserved it is have led these facilities to receive important awards, as well as general recognition. One of the most significant is the IPA Spain award received in 2009, in addition to the Sant Jordi Cross awarded to the museum by the Generalitat in 2007.
Prices
The general admission ticket costs €7. The reduced ticket costs €5.60, while groups only have to pay €5 for each member.
Museo del Ampurdán
The Museum of Ampurdán, located at La Rambla 2, Figueres, is a cultural space that stands out for its dedication to contemporary artistic creation and the preservation of a valuable local cultural heritage. This museum offers visitors an enriching experience through:
- Temporary exhibitions showcasing works by contemporary and local artists, featuring impactful and well-documented pieces that foster interesting dialogue with the audience.
- Free access with the ticket from the Dalí Museum, allowing for an additional cost-free visit.
- Friendly and attentive staff who provide excellent service, ensuring every visitor feels welcome and cared for.
- Variety of artworks, from local art history to exhibitions on the local cuisine and recognized artists like Dalí.
- Comfort, with cozy facilities and air conditioning, making for a pleasant visit year-round.
Visitors highlight the interesting and emotional aspects of the exhibitions, and many consider it a must-visit in the Costa Brava. A perfect place to enjoy art and culture with family.
Dalí Jewels Collection
Dalí Jewels Collection, located on the Costa Brava, is a must-visit for art and jewelry lovers. In this small yet impressive museum, you can admire a magnificent collection of jewels that reflect the genius of the famous artist Salvador Dalí. The exhibition features pieces that are truly works of art, blending imagination, luxury, and the exceptional technique characteristic of Dalí's work.
- Unique exhibition: The collection showcases surrealist jewelry that surprises with its design and creativity.
- Access for all: The museum is wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy this artistic wonder.
- Free entry: Admission is free with your Dalí theater-museum ticket, making it an excellent complementary activity.
- Affordability: A visit lasts around 30-40 minutes and is very reasonably priced for the experience it offers.
Visitor reviews highlight the originality and beauty of the jewelry, making it an essential stop for those exploring Dalí's legacy in the area. Don't miss it!
