Discover the history and evolution of the world’s most popular instrument at Almería’s Guitar Museum. Learn about Antonio de Torres, the father of the contemporary guitar, and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Overview: History, what to expect, and unique features of the Museo de la Guitarra
The Museo de la Guitarra Española ‘Antonio de Torres’ is a modern, informative museum in Almería dedicated to the Spanish guitar. It is named in honour of Antonio de Torres Jurado. He was the revolutionary 19th-century luthier who is widely considered the father of the contemporary guitar. The museum was created to showcase the historical significance of the instrument, particularly its deep roots in Spain and its evolution into the modern form played worldwide.
Visitors can expect a didactic, interactive experience across eleven exhibition spaces spanning three floors. The museum details the instrument’s origins from antiquity, its medieval evolution, and its critical development in Spain between the 16th and 18th centuries. The exhibits include replicas of a vihuela de mano, a Renaissance guitar, and a Baroque guitar. A major section is devoted to the workshop and techniques of Antonio de Torres. You can also explore a gallery of famous guitarists across all styles (from Andrés Segovia to Paco de Lucía and Jimi Hendrix) and enjoy interactive, soundproof rooms where you can play different types of guitars.
Planning your visit to the Guitar Museum: opening times and access
The Museo de la Guitarra operates two distinct seasonal timetables, with consistent closure on Mondays.
- Winter hours (October to May): Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. On Sundays, the museum is open only in the morning (10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.).
- Summer hours (June to September): Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sundays are open only in the morning (10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.).
- Closures: The museum closes every Monday.
- Recommended time: Allow approximately one hour to fully engage with the historical and interactive exhibits.
Guitar Museum admission fees and tickets
Tickets are affordably priced, with reduced rates available for groups and children.
| Ticket type | Price (Estimate, checked December 2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General Admission | €3.00 | |
| Reduced Price (Groups of 15+, under 18, over 64) | €2.00 | Proof of status is required upon entry. |
| Children (Under 6 years old) | Free (€0 ticket required) |
Purchase note: Tickets can be purchased online in advance via the official cultural events website for the city of Almería. Visitors with reduced-price tickets must verify their eligibility with ID.
Accessibility, safety, and amenities
As a modern building, the museum offers good facilities for visitors.
- Accessibility: The museum is housed in a modern building with multiple floors connected by stairs, but facilities are in place to ensure accessibility to all main exhibit areas.
- Facilities: The museum includes a reception area and a dedicated room for temporary exhibitions and organised events.
- Interaction: The Didactic Room and the Interactive Room allow visitors a hands-on experience, including touching and playing certain types of guitars.
Nearby attractions to the Guitar Museum
The museum is located in the central area of Almería, near the city’s key historical and cultural landmarks:
- Almería Cathedral: The city’s main cathedral, notable for its unusual fortress-like design, built to defend against pirate attacks.
- Alcazaba of Almería: The spectacular fortress complex built by the Caliphate of Córdoba, offering panoramic views of the city and harbour.
- Paseo de Almería: The city’s main street, offering shops, restaurants, and architectural landmarks, connecting the old and new parts of Almería.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about the Guitar Museum
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Who was Antonio de Torres? | Antonio de Torres Jurado (1817–1892) was a Spanish luthier from Almería considered the father of the contemporary acoustic guitar due to his revolutionary design changes. |
| Is the museum interactive? | Yes, the museum is highly interactive, featuring soundproof rooms where visitors can play different types of guitars and access digital media. |
| What is the most historic piece in the collection? | The museum focuses on the legacy and influence of Antonio de Torres and displays pieces linked to the artisanal manufacture of guitars using his techniques. |
| Can I visit the museum in the afternoon? | Yes, during both summer and winter schedules, the museum reopens in the afternoon after a lunch break, offering late hours until 8:00 p.m. or 9:00 p.m. |
| Does the museum feature electric guitarists? | Yes, the Gallery of Guitarists features prominent figures across all genres, including classical, flamenco (Tomatito), and rock (Jimi Hendrix, Brian May). |
More Andalucia travel
Other Andalucia travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Does the Almeria to Granada train make for a viable day trip?
- What to expect at the Royal Chapel of Granada.
- A first-time visitor’s guide to Seville Cathedral.
- How the Caminito del Rey tour from Malaga works.
- Five things to do in Cordoba once you’ve seen the Mezquita.
