Mythology artworks tour

In Ancient Greece, mythology narrated stories about gods and goddesses that lived on Mount Olympus and had the power to control the lives of people.

Zeus was the most powerful god, while other gods ruled over various aspects of life.

For example, Aphrodite was the goddess of love, and Athena was the goddess of wisdom.

Mythological gods often interacted with humans on Earth.

The gods could take on human form, or transform into natural elements like rain.

There were also heroes with unique abilities who accomplished great feats.

For example, Hercules was very strong, and Perseus was very brave.

Unlike gods, heroes were mortal.

The Greeks used these stories of gods and heroes to explain natural events and occurrences.

They tried to understand the universe, for example, day and night, seasons, and the passage of time.

The ancient Romans adopted Greek mythology but changed the names of the gods.

For example, the Greek god Zeus became Jupiter in Ancient Rome.

Throughout history, mythology has been a source of inspiration for artists.

In the Prado Museum, there are 16 century paintings by Italian artists like Annibale Carracci, Titian, and Veronese depicting scenes from the stories of gods such as Venus, Jupiter, or Bacchus.

The 17 century painting collection at the Prado Museum also includes artworks depicting mythological characters by artists like Rubens, Guido Reni, Poussin, and Velázquez.

Also, 19 century painters were interested in mythological subjects.

In 1820, Francisco de Goya painted Saturn.

Saturn was the Roman god associated with time.

Within this itinerary, you can also see 2 sculptures from different periods depicting mythological stories of Orestes and Pylades and of Venus and Mars.