21st century
Remodelling for the future
Under the direction of José Cuesta Mañas (2000-2004), the Salzillo Museum was remodelled.
The new architectural project allowed the Church of Jesus to be used as a sacred theatre by putting the galleries with their open balconies into use, allowing visitors to glimpse from above the great apotheosis that awaits them at the end of the tour as they contemplate the famous Passion scenes, in an effect very typical of the Baroque.
As the architect himself (Pablo Puente) points out, the museum has been conceived as ‘a journey through time and space, a labyrinth of emotions, memories and knowledge’.
The Church of Jesus, considered a treasure trove of sculptures since the 19th century, continues to fascinate visitors. Its Baroque essence has been perfectly integrated into the architecture of a new millennium proposed by Bonet, rich in lines, empty spaces, white Venetian stucco walls and, above all, light, the great protagonist.
The building was inaugurated by Infanta Cristina in October 2002, thanks to the sponsorship of the Cajamurcia Foundation, the Autonomous Community of the Region of Murcia and Murcia City Council.
In 2009, based on a project by Pablo Puente and María Teresa Marín, the museum’s narrative was modified, with new sections dedicated to the rich history of the Brotherhood of Jesus, to Salzillo’s lost work through old photographs, and to the recreation of a Baroque workshop for a better understanding of wood carving techniques.
It also has a new temporary exhibition hall and storage rooms equipped for the works in storage.
Today, after more than sixty years of existence, the Museum continues to undergo a complete renovation of its management and museum facilities in order to bring the art of Francisco Salzillo to the diverse public that visits it.
