Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando: History, Art and Life in Alcalá

If you've ever wondered what it really means to be part of the Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando, you're in the right place. My name is Rubén Águila, and I have a rather special relationship with this institution that, as pompous as it sounds, has become a mainstay for anyone who loves art in Spain.

The first time I visited the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando, I was 19 years old. I was a young dreamer, with more desire than knowledge, and honestly, I didn't even know where to begin to understand art.

But you know what? From the moment I set foot in that majestic building, something clicked. But before I go into details, let me tell you a little more about what it is and why this academy is a beacon for the arts in Spain.

The Academy Foundation and its Influence

This academy was inaugurated on June 13, 1752 (yes, a few centuries ago now) and, since then, has been dedicated to the promotion and teaching of the fine arts. It is located in an impressive building on Alcalá street in Madrid, in what used to be the Palacio de Goyeneche. And there it remains, as a silent witness of centuries of artistic creation.

Fernando VI, the king who was aiming for the coolest European trends of the time, was the one who promoted its creation. And yes, the goal was clear: to put Spain on the art map. From sculptors to painters and architects, everyone has passed through its doors, absorbing not only technique, but a respect for artistic tradition.

What Can You Find at the Academy Today?

I'll tell you in one word: a treasure. Literally. The Academy is known for having one of the most valuable collections in Spain. From pieces by Velázquez to architectural gems by José de Churriguera, the place is like a living catalog of Spanish art history. But wait, because it's not just about classical art; there are also contemporary exhibitions and fashion events, such as the recent collaboration with Devota & Lomba, where fashion and art merged.

My First Contact With The Academy

I remember entering the Academy without knowing that I was about to be exposed to the best of Spanish and European art. The first room I visited was the one dedicated to Goya. Now, if you don't know Goya, I really don't know what you're waiting for. Francisco de Goya, that artist who captured like no one else the shadows and lights of his time, has a special space here. And for me, it was like a head-on collision with what art can do: it can make you feel. It pushes you, it makes you uncomfortable, it fascinates you.

The Artistic Legacy: Much More Than Paintings

But it's not all painting. At the Real Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando, sculpture also plays an important role. Thanks to figures like Felipe de Castro or Juan Domingo Olivieri, the academy has also been an epicenter of sculpture training, something that is reflected in its impressive collection of classical works.

I confess that the first time I saw those sculptures, I could not stop thinking about the number of artists who have passed through those rooms, leaving their mark on history. And the Academia is not just a place where art is taught, it is a space that breathes history.

What You Didn't Know: The Academy as an Engine of Innovation

The curious thing about all this is that, although the Academy seems like a temple of the past, it also has a foot in the present and the future. From didactic activities to bring young people closer to art, to collaborations with fashion and other sectors, the Academy has become a dynamic cultural center.

Conclusion: The Royal Academy and You

If you're ever in Madrid and feel inspired or simply curious, I encourage you to visit the Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando. Whether you are passionate about art or just someone who enjoys beauty, I promise you that the experience will change your life. Rubén Águila, a guy who went in there without knowing much about art, came out with a deep respect for the artistic tradition and with the conviction that art is not just for a few.

And if you are one of those who are intimidated by art, don't worry. You don't need to be an expert to enjoy this experience. You just have to open your eyes and let the art speak for itself. At the end of the day, art is there for everyone, and the Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando is one of the best places to start that journey.