Introduction
Nestled against the dramatic backdrop of the Pyrenees in Huesca, the CDAN | Centro de Arte y Naturaleza is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture and a testament to artistic philanthropy. The museum was born from the vision of the celebrated painter José Beulas and his wife, María Sarrate, who donated their extensive private collection and land to create a space where art and the environment could coexist. Designed by the Pritzker Prize-winning architect Rafael Moneo, the building itself is a work of art; its undulating, earth-toned silhouette mimics the surrounding Mallos de Riglos rock formations, seamlessly integrating the structure into the Aragonese landscape.
CDAN is far more than a traditional gallery; it is a pioneering institution dedicated to exploring the intersection of contemporary culture and the natural world. Visitors can explore two primary pillars: the Beulas-Sarrate collection, which features significant works of 20th-century art, and the innovative "Art and Nature" program. This latter initiative has seen world-renowned artists create site-specific "Land Art" installations throughout the province of Huesca, making the museum the gateway to a larger, open-air dialogue between human creativity and the rugged beauty of the Hoya de Huesca region.
Why Visit CDAN?
A visit to CDAN offers a serene, thought-provoking escape for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you are wandering through the light-filled interior galleries or using the center as a starting point to discover monumental sculptures hidden in the nearby countryside, the experience challenges how we perceive our place in the environment. Highlights of the visitor experience include:
- Architectural Harmony: Experience Rafael Moneo’s fluid design that blurs the lines between the museum and the desert-like terrain.
- Diverse Collections: View a rich array of contemporary paintings and sculptures donated by José Beulas alongside rotating temporary exhibitions.
- Landscape Integration: Learn about the "Art and Nature" itinerary, which features large-scale works by artists like Richard Long and Ulrich Rückriem located in the surrounding territory.
- Cultural Hub: Engage with a regular programme of activities that focus on public space, contemporary culture, and new perspectives on the natural world.
Highlights
- The CDAN Building by Rafael Moneo (2006): This architectural masterpiece features undulating concrete volumes designed to echo the jagged silhouettes of the nearby Mallos de Riglos rock formations.
- Árboles como arqueología by Ulrich Rückriem (1992): Located in the nearby Piracés desert, these monumental granite stelae explore the intersection between geometric precision and the rugged natural landscape.
- La línea del horizonte by Alberto Carneiro (1994): Situated in Candasnos, this installation uses a grove of olive trees and stone to frame the vast, horizontal perspective of the Monegros region.
- Diamante by Per Kirkeby (1996): This brick structure in Plan de la Casa serves as a "shadow house," creating a dialogue between architectural form and the changing light of the Pyrenees.
- Monumento a la montaña by Richard Long (1997): A simple yet profound stone circle at the foot of the Maladeta massif that honors the geological spirit of the high mountains.
- Shivitti by Siah Armajani (2000): An architectural gazebo in Lanuza designed as a space for meditation, offering a framed view of the reservoir and the surrounding peaks.
- Three Sentinels by David Nash (2003): Carved from charred cedar and located in the Sierra de Guara, these three sculptures act as silent guardians observing the ecological evolution of the forest.
- Monegros by José Beulas (1995): A quintessential landscape painting from the museum's founder that captures the atmospheric light and stark beauty of the Aragonese steppe.
Getting There
The Centro de Arte y Naturaleza (CDAN) is located on the outskirts of Huesca, housed in a landmark building designed by Rafael Moneo. The museum is situated at the beginning of the A-132 road, which leads toward Pamplona via Ayerbe.
By Car
The museum is easily accessible by private vehicle from any part of the city.
- From the A-23 (Autovía Mudéjar): Take exit 360 (Huesca centro).
- Via the A-132: The museum is located directly off this highway at the edge of the city.
Walking and Taxi
As the museum is located on Avenida del Doctor Artero on the city’s outskirts, it is reachable on foot from the center of Huesca. Alternatively, visitors can take a taxi directly to the Fundación Beulas site.
Admission & Opening Hours
Opening Hours
The center is open to the public from Thursday through Sunday. Please note that the museum remains closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.
- Thursday: 11:00–15:00
- Friday: 11:00–18:00
- Saturday: 11:00–18:00
- Sunday: 11:00–15:00
- Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday: Closed
Admission
For information regarding current ticket prices and entry fees, please check the official website.
Nearby Attractions
- Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Salas (600m, 8 min walk): This historic 12th-century Romanesque-Gothic sanctuary is a significant local landmark located just a short walk south of the museum grounds.
- Parque Miguel Servet (1.3km, 16 min walk): Huesca’s largest green space offers shaded walking paths and is home to the iconic "Las Pajaritas" sculpture.
- Huesca Cathedral (1.8km, 23 min walk): A magnificent 13th-century Gothic structure located in the heart of the old town, featuring a renowned alabaster altarpiece.
- **Museum of Hues
Know Before You Go
Accessibility
- The center is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all visitors can navigate the exhibition spaces and appreciate the architectural design.
Photography
- Visitors are encouraged to capture the interaction between art and the natural landscape. Please check for specific signage regarding flash photography or restrictions within individual gallery rooms.
Best Time to Visit
- To best experience the relationship between the building and the surrounding Huesca landscape, plan your visit during daylight hours to see how natural light interacts with the structure.
Facilities
- For details regarding available services and visitor amenities, please consult the staff at the information desk upon your arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the CDAN? A: The Centro de Arte y Naturaleza (CDAN) is a museum and research center located in Huesca, Spain. It is dedicated to exploring the intersection of contemporary art, nature, public space, and the landscape.
Q: Who designed the museum building? A: The striking contemporary building was designed by the renowned Spanish architect Rafael Moneo. It was built on land donated by the painter José Beulas and his wife, Maria Sarrate.
Q: What are the main highlights of the collection? A: The museum manages a "double collection" that includes:
- The Beulas-Sarrate Collection: Artworks donated by the painter José Beulas.
- The Art and Nature Collection: Contemporary works specifically focused on environmental and landscape themes.
Q: Where is the museum located? A: CDAN is situated on the outskirts of Huesca city, at the beginning of the A-132 road (the highway toward Pamplona via Ayerbe).
Q: How can I reach the museum by car? A: You can reach the center via several routes:
- From the A-23 (Autovía Mudéjar), take exit 360 toward Huesca Centro.
- From within Huesca, follow signs for the A-132 toward Ayerbe/Pamplona.
Q: What kind of exhibitions does CDAN host? A: The museum offers a regular program of temporary exhibitions. These shows primarily focus on contemporary culture and the diverse relationships between artistic creation and the natural environment.
Q: Who was José Beulas? A: José Beulas was a distinguished painter whose generosity made the foundation possible. He donated both the land for the building and a significant portion of the artworks that form the museum's permanent heritage.
Q: Is the museum suitable for academic research? A: Yes. Beyond its public galleries, CDAN serves as a center for creation and investigation. It provides resources for the study of contemporary art and landscape, offering new insights into how humans interact with their surroundings.
Q: Are there activities for visitors beyond the galleries? A: The center offers a regular program of activities centered on public space and contemporary culture. You can find more information about current events on the official CDAN website.