Housed in the former Gravina Palace, a fine 18th-century mansion that once belonged to the Count of Lumiares, is an excellent fine arts museum by the name of MUBAG (Museo de Bellas Artes Gravina / Gravina Museum of Fine Arts).
Of its holdings that number over 2,000 pieces, approximately 500 works of art by artists of the 16th through early 20th centuries are on display, with special attention given to artists from Alicante and its surroundings. Instead of identical exhibition rooms and bare walls, artwork is dispersed into sections and themes as well as put into context with to decorate arts, period furniture and textiles, which will help you understand the historical, social and cultural environment in which the artwork on display was created. Artists whose paintings and sculptures are on display include such names as Vicente López, Salzillo, Antonio Gisbert and Joaquín Agrasot, amongst others. Together, the artwork and artists provide us with a clear grasp of the evolution of art in and around Alicante. Furthermore, MUBAG hosts an active agenda of cultural events, temporary exhibtions and concerts.
The setting of the museum is also of great interest, particularly if you appreciate excellent architecture. The mansion which, as we mentioned, belonged to the Count of Lumiares and his family, was built during the affluent economic boom of the 18th century. Note its beautiful façade, stunning stone arches, grand staircases and other features brimming with grandeur. If you're interested in learning more about the building and its history, there's even a special section of the museum dedicated to the Gravina Palace.