Crafted between 1905 and 1930 by the visionary Modernista architect Lluís Domènech I Montaner, the Sant Pau Recinte complex was designed as a garden city to care for the sick. Once a public hospital for a century, the site has been meticulously restored to its original grandeur.
During the late 19th century, the need to relocate the old Hospital de la Santa Creu in Barcelona's El Raval neighbourhood gave birth to an ambitious project driven by advancements in health and hygiene. This institution has always been synonymous with charity, welfare, and cutting-edge healthcare innovations.
The site comprises 16 pavilions interconnected by underground passageways, boasting a distinctive aesthetic defined by mosaic artwork, vibrant roof tiles, intricate arches, and whimsical, playful contours. Within its embrace, you'll find courtyards and verdant spaces, a testament to Montaner's belief that flowers and trees held the power to nurture patients beyond the confines of a typical sterile setting.
As you explore the site, you'll be captivated by the Modernista motifs that adorn the renovated pavilions. Witness how the former hospital complex has transformed into a knowledge campus, housing prestigious international organisations such as the European Forest Institute, the United Nations University Institute on Globalization, Culture, and Mobility, Casa Àsia, and the Global University Network for Innovation.
Step into the history of one of Barcelona's most awe-inspiring edifices. Wander through the pavilions, nestled within enchanting gardens, interconnected by underground passages that reveal a tapestry of sculptures, stained glass, and mosaics.
The Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site is a masterpiece that doesn't exude an intimidating aura but instead invites a sense of warmth and approachability. Book your tickets now and get transported through time and architecture, unveiling the legacy of a remarkable era.
