The Museo Nacional de San Carlos exhibits a formidable collection of European art from the 14th century to early 20th century, including works by Rubens and Goya. The five permanent halls showcase various artistic movements including Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Romantic styles. The painting of the praying Portrait of the Fagoaga Arozqueta family (c1735) by an anonymous artist provides insight into what an upper-class criollo family in Mexico City in New Spain would have looked like.
One particularly dramatic sculpture is The Call to Arms by Auguste Rodin (of Thinker fame) depicting a naked dying French soldier leaning against a winged spirit with raised arms.
The museum is housed within the regal Palace of the Count of Buenavista, a neoclassical masterpiece designed by Spanish–Mexican architect Manuel Tolsá in the late 18th century. The unusual rotunda shape of the buildings reflects Baroque influences. What was once the palace gardens is today known as Jardín Tabacalera and is a pleasant park-plaza to take five before and after your museum exploration.
