This is the 2010 tapestry exhibition at the Prado Museum in Madrid

If you like to appreciate the beauty of the great tapestries made in medieval times, until the September 26 you have the opportunity to contemplate the tapestry exhibition de The Loves of Mercury and Herse, in the Prado Museum in Madrid.

These are true jewels of art that, in addition to their artistic values, due to the use of gilded silver metal threads in their production, also make them true jewels.

This tapestry exhibition shows the complete series of eight tapestries woven from the year 1570 by Flemish upholsterer Willem de Pannemaker, official supplier to the royal courts in the Renaissance era.

It is the first time since its creation that the aforementioned complete collection of these tapestries that represent the Ovid's fable about the loves of Mercury and Herse.

The tapestries are framed by borders designed for The Acts of the Apostles, by Raphael, destined for the Sistine Chapel of the Vatican.

The exhibition is complemented by the portrait of the Duke of Lerma painted by Rubens in 1603, given his special predilection for Flemish and Italian tapestries and art, and as the owner of one of Willem de Pannemaker's tapestries.

La exhibition of tapestries of The Loves of Mercurio and Herse takes place in Room C of the Jerónimos building of the Prado Museum.

Free guided tours of the tapestry exhibition

If you are interested in delving into the history and characteristics of these tapestries, you can participate in the free guided tours, called Didactic Itineraries, which take place during the months of the exhibition.

In June, starting on the 8th, the educational itineraries take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays, at 11 a.m., and on Wednesdays at 17 p.m. (except June 15). In July, the meetings take place on Wednesdays at 11 a.m.; in August, on Wednesdays at 17 p.m. (except the 18th); and in September, on Wednesdays at 11 a.m.

To sign up for the educational itineraries of the Prado Museum's tapestry exhibition, you must go 30 minutes before the start to the Education Area meeting point, in the lobby of the Jerónimos building. The group is limited to 15 people.