From prehistory to postmodernism, the arts in Spain have occupied a powerful and influential role in the development of Western art. This wide-ranging and incisive overview traces the history of painting, sculpture, the decorative arts and architecture whilst situating them within their contexts.

It investigates Iberian and Roman beginnings and examines the splendour of the Islamic and Christian foundations at Córdoba and the Escorial, before concentrating on the masterworks of El Greco, the Golden Age of Zurbaran and Velázquez, and the creations of Goya. After discussing the brilliant innovations of Picasso, Dali and Miró, it concludes by considering the most recent developments in Spanish art.