The Castillos de Valderas were originally built as a private residence by the Marquis of Valderas in the early 20th century.
The original structures fell into near-ruin before being acquired and restored by the Alcorcón City Council in the 1990s.
Glass art in the collection ranges from delicate optical glass to large-scale, heavy-duty industrial kiln-fused glass.
The MAVA is part of a growing movement in Spain to repurpose historical heritage sites into specialized contemporary art galleries.
The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing glass-blowing techniques from around the globe.
The MAVA (Museo de Arte en Vidrio de Alcorcón) is housed within the historic Castillos de Valderas, two neo-medieval towers reconstructed in the 1990s. The museum is one of the few institutions in Europe exclusively dedicated to contemporary glass art. Its permanent collection features over 200 works from international artists, utilizing techniques such as blowing, kiln-casting, and cold-working. The site serves as a cultural hub for Alcorcón, integrating historical architectural revival with modern exhibition spaces. Visitors can observe the contrast between the fortress-like masonry exteriors and the climate-controlled, minimalist interior galleries. The facility focuses on the evolution of glass as a medium for sculpture rather than functional object.
The central courtyard between the two towers offers the best perspective of the neo-medieval architecture.
Check the museum's official website for current temporary exhibition schedules before visiting.
Allow time to walk around the exterior of the castles, as the landscaping and surrounding gardens are part of the historical site's restoration.
The galleries are smaller than they appear from the outside; do not rush the details of the smaller glass pieces.
Do not attempt to view the museum on a Monday when it is consistently closed.
Closed every Monday and on select public holidays.
Maintain a quiet volume in the galleries and avoid touching the glass exhibits, as surfaces are sensitive to oils.
