Rafael Moneo, famous architect awarded with the 1996 Pritzker Architecture Prize, was responsible for the design of the extension of the Prado Museum (1998-2007), a project in which Industrias Metálicas Anro collaborated as producer of the metal structure that makes up this new building (700 tons of steel).
He graduated from the Madrid School of Architecture in 1961, where he later became a professor from (1966-1970). For a few years, Moneo remained in Spain as a lecturer at the Madrid and Barcelona Schools of Architecture until 1985, when he was named Chairman of the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University, a position he still holds.
It was only in 1996 that the Ministry of Culture realized the lack of space in the main building and called a public contest for the addition. Thus, the project presented by Moneo, “Buen Retiro”, was unanimously chosen out of more than 700 projects submitted.
The proposed plan included the addition of a new building with a new floor plan around the restored cloister of the Jerónimos. The extension plan provides the Museum with adequate space and facilities for the development of its internal activities. In addition, the extension of the Jerónimos allowed for the recovery of a quarter of the space of the main building.
In summary, this expansion meant a great release of space for the Prado, facilitating the exhibition and conservation of art, as well as the reception of visitors from outside. As the producer of the metal structure of the building, Industrias Metálicas Anro is thankful for the opportunity to collaborate with one of the most prestigious architects in the country. We look forward to future collaborations.
