The Mercader Palace Museum, known locally as Museo Palacio Mercader, is a hidden gem nestled in the vibrant city of Cornellà de Llobregat, Spain. This captivating museum, housed in the splendid Can Mercader Palace, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Catalan aristocracy. With over 3,000 artifacts, it beautifully showcases the eclectic collection of Joaquim de Mercader i de Bell-lloc, the Count of Bell-lloc.
Originally inaugurated on April 23, 1995, the Mercader Palace Museum is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. The palace itself was once the residence of the Bell-lloc Mercader family, whose history is intricately woven into the fabric of Catalonia. The museum joined the Network of Local Museums of the Diputació de Barcelona in 2003, further cementing its status as a cultural landmark.
The palace's noble floor, where the museum is located, was the family’s main living area. Visitors can explore rooms that range from everyday living spaces to those used for grand social gatherings. Each room is a reflection of the decorative styles popular during the time, featuring influences from the Renaissance to Neo-Mudéjar.
As you step inside, the first room you encounter is the Portrait Room, adorned with portraits of the Mercader family. This space, once an annex to the library, boasts an eclectic mix of styles, from Baroque chests to Fernandine sideboards. Here, you'll find a striking portrait of Arnau de Mercader and his wife, Paulina Pozzali Crotti, a talented opera singer from Italy.
The Main Hall, or Saló Lluís XIV, is the largest room on the palace's main façade. Although built in the 19th century, it draws inspiration from French Rococo, reminiscent of the Hall of Mirrors. The hall is adorned with Flemish tapestries from the late 16th and early 17th centuries, depicting the duality of war's consequences.
The Saló Àrab is a feast for the eyes, with its Neo-Mudéjar style and intricate designs. Originally used for social events and dances, this room was moved from the family's former palace on Passeig de Gràcia around 1900. The walls are inscribed with the names Mercader and Counts of Bell-lloc in Arabic script, adding an exotic touch to the decor.
The Rose Room, once a guest bedroom, continues the Neo-Mudéjar theme. Meanwhile, the Isabelina Room, located in the southwest tower, showcases exquisite furniture from the Isabeline era. A highlight is the triple chair, known as the indiscreet, dating back to the 1860s. This room is presided over by a grand portrait of a family friend, Ramón Blanco, painted by Josep Cusachs.
The museum houses an impressive collection of antiquities, ranging from paintings and engravings to ceramics and weaponry. The Hall of Passage, or Renaissance Room, features murals by Pere Pau Montaña and furniture from the 16th and 17th centuries. The ceiling's false coffered design is a nod to 16th-century Catalan architecture.
The Austrias Room, or Saló Lluís XVI, embodies the neoclassical style, with portraits of historical figures like Archduke Charles II and his wife, Elisabeth Christine. The room reflects the Mercader family's Austrian sympathies.
The Piano Room, a cozy living space, contains a pianola and harmonium, offering a glimpse into the leisurely pursuits of the era. The dining room is dominated by a large extendable table and features paintings by Francesc Masriera, depicting the Four Seasons.
The museum's gallery and ground floor display various collections amassed by the Mercader family. These include an eclectic array of items, from natural history specimens to numismatic treasures, reflecting the family's passion for collecting.
On the second floor of the palace, visitors can explore the Museum of Mathematics of Catalonia. Initially an exhibition titled Mathematical Experiences, it has grown into a full-fledged museum, offering interactive exhibits that delight and educate visitors of all ages.
In conclusion, the Mercader Palace Museum is not just a museum; it is a journey through time, offering a window into the opulent past of Catalonia's aristocracy. Its walls tell stories of art, culture, and history, making it an unmissable destination for anyone visiting Cornellà de Llobregat.
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