Museo de Arquelogia

On Saturday, a group of us found ourselves wandering the streets of Madrid before the Flamenco show. We ended up at the National Archeological Museum and got a chance to explore some of the artifacts we learned about in class. The museum’s exhibit featured the treasures of the Iberia art all the way up to Modern era. It was such a treat to really study what what we learned in class out in Madrid. La Dama de Elche was on display and we got to see up it up close, and even take pictures. It is fascinating that historians can depict so much of what their culture was like during this time by these sculptures. They interpret her social class from her jewels and adornment on her bust. Also, her serene, stern and alert demeanor are represented beautifully in her face as well. Also, on display was La Dama de Baza, which was placed to the right of La Dama de Elche. It was interesting to compare the two statutes in front of us. La Dama de Baza, as we learned, had jars, jewels and was sitting upright in her chair. She, as well, had a stern demeanor on her face and her hands placed lightly on her lap amidst her flowing robe.
After we enjoyed the exhibit, a kind old man explained to us that there are more “treasures” to be found, but the majority of the Museum was closed for renovations. It would be open in two years with even more artifacts for the public to enjoy. He knew his history very well and was glad to give us recommendations of places to visit in and outside of Madrid. He spoke to us for awhile and was surprised to hear we were from the U.S! (I guess we are doing something right) I really enjoyed that museum because we started out slightly lost and ended up learning more than we expected! It's nice to discover new and exciting things to do in Madrid!