Bienal de Pontevedra

As part of the Pontevedra Art Biennial, the Museum of Pontevedra presents one of Goya’s most significant pieces: a book of original prints from his series Los desastres de la guerra (The disasters of war). Created between 1810 and 1815, these 82 prints are fundamental in the history of art for their direct and gritty approach to the horror of the Spanish War of Independence. Goya became one of the first war reporters, sharply documenting the devastating effects of the conflict. The impact of Los desastres de la Guerra lies in its ability to portray the brutality, fanaticism and injustice of war without any frills. The series does not glorify individuals or limit itself to anecdotal episodes, but presents human suffering in a collective way, and invites viewers to reflect on the consequences of violence and power.