While primarily a tourism and cultural zone, the area is a major hub for art education, conservation, and research:
- **Casón del Buen Retiro:** A historic building that houses the Prado Museum's library and serves as a premier study center for researchers. - **Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando:** Located nearby, this historic fine arts academy has trained Spain's greatest artists. - **Reina Sofía Library and Documentation Center:** A major public research facility dedicated to contemporary art and history. - **Escuela Superior de Conservación y Restauración de Bienes Culturales:** Spain's leading institution for the training of art conservators, situated within the broader central district.