In 1881, Pablo Picasso, the most important artist of the 20th century, was born at No. 15 Plaza de la Merced. Declared an Artistic-Historical Monument of National Interest in 1983. The Birthplace and Museum now occupies the whole of the building. Since 2005, there is also another exhibition room at No. 13 of this same square. During its existence, Picasso´s Birthplace Museum has compiled a collection of works of art featuring over four thousand pieces by over 200 different artists. These include Picasso’s sketchbooks in preparation for 'Las señoritas de Aviñón', the only sketchbooks of this kind contained in a Spanish collection, dating from 1907. Its exhibition rooms contain various original objects, family souvenirs, and pieces made by the artist that document the family, social, and cultural ties of Pablo Picasso with Málaga. The birthplace of Pablo Ruiz Picasso also houses a specialist library and offers a continuous programme of temporary exhibitions and cultural activities.