Culture

Prado cannot be like ‘the Metro at rush hour’, says Madrid museum’s chief

Record 3.5 million visited in 2025 and plans are afoot to ensure gallery does not become overburdened like Louvre

From the World Cup to the return of Michaela Coel, 2026 promises to excite and bring joy

A very Long Wave-coded book, a landmark Nigerian film and more Black art, culture and sport on its way in the next 12 months

31 Atlantic Stories You Might Have Missed

An assortment of articles about a journey to Mark Twain’s Paris, what parents of boys should know, obtaining the perfect suit, and more.

The year of the self-mocking man sketch: ‘Dumb masculinity is very funny’

It’s a ridiculous time to be male – and that’s good news for a new genre of social media comedy poking fun at the shifting notions of masculinity

Saunas, electronica and air guitar: Oulu, Finland’s tech city, is European Capital of Culture 2026

This Nordic city and digital hub is having its moment in the (midnight) sun, offering cultural, arty events and pleasingly eclectic silliness

The Louvre is the pride of France – and it’s on the verge of collapse. Can we rescue it in time?

From a jewel heist to crumbling galleries, it’s been a dire year for the world’s most visited museum. At least France has woken up to its predicament

‘Have sex to my own music? That sounds repugnant’: KT Tunstall’s honest playlist

The Scots singer thought Kim Wilde was cool and got talked into buying a Cocteau Twins record but which song gives her a slap in the face?

‘Almost collapsed’: behind the Korean film crisis and why K-pop isn’t immune

Both industries dominate the world but now face fundamental transformation and uncertainty at home

From Central Cee to Adolescence: in 2025 British culture had a global moment

Despite funding cuts and shuttered venues, homegrown music, TV, film and, yes, memes have dominated the global zeitgeist over the past 12 years. Now this culture must be future-proofed from the forces of globalisation

The Guide #223: From surprise TV hits to year-defining records

In this week’s newsletter: We’ve had our say; now it’s your turn. Overlooked telly gems, unforgettable gigs and albums on repeat – readers share the cultural moments that made their year

The 20 best podcasts of 2025

Can Bill Nighy solve your life problems? Why are comedians moonlighting as detectives? And what happens when an AI steals your heart? This year’s most addictive podcasts …

The best art and photography of 2025

Jenny Saville’s bruising paintings, Andy Goldsworthy’s immersive stones, Lee Miller’s surrealist shots and Diane Arbus’s unforgiving nudes – our critics highlight a spectacular year The best design and architecture of 2025 More on the best culture of 2025