The Real Círculo Artístico de Barcelona, or Reial Cercle Artístic de Barcelona, is since 1881 the preferred meeting point for Catalan artists. The organization, housed in two impressive 16th century architectural jewels, the Pignatelli Palace and the Bassols House, promotes and exchanges the culture of Barcelona, Catalonia and the world. An emblematic location, full of Gothic windows and Renaissance reliefs, through which illustrious artists such as Picasso, Urgell, Casas or Xavier Gosé have passed.
A bit of history about the Royal Artistic Circle of Barcelona
143 years ago, the Cercle de Barcelona was founded by several Catalan artists -among them Ramon Casas and Joaquim Mir- as an association that sought the independence of artists and the promotion of artistic expressions, from modernism to ochocentismo. In 1906, the famous painter Carlos Vázquez Úbeda portrayed the king for the association’s headquarters, which consolidated a close relationship with the Royal House. This connection was formalized in 1917 when the institution received the title of “Royal”.
What can you do at the Royal Artistic Circle of Barcelona?
You can enjoy a wide variety of activities and spaces to discover. Among the most emblematic is the Salón de los Atlantes, an impressive neoclassical space where concerts, book presentations and conferences are held. In addition, the Circle hosts gastronomic events, immersive exhibitions, Candlelight concerts and temporary exhibitions by renowned artists such as Matt Lamb and Amanda Lear.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get to the Real Círculo Artístico de Barcelona
The venue is in the Gothic Quarter, so it’s very easy to get there. You can take bus lines 14, 16, 17 and 42, or use the metro and get off at Plaça Catalunya or Passeig de Gràcia.
What are the opening hours for visiting the exhibitions?
The regular visiting hours at the Real Círculo Artístico de Barcelona are from Monday to Sunday, from 10 am to 2 pm and from 3 pm to 8 pm.
Why is there a statue of a dog in the courtyard?
It has always generated a lot of curiosity and the truth is that it is a very interesting story. Entitled “Cave canum” and created by Lluís Montané, the sculpture was inspired by the discovery of the skeleton of a dog during the renovation of the building in the 19th century. It is believed that this dog was the guardian of the place and that is why the statue pays tribute to him.
Barcelona is distinguished by its exceptional beauty, where modernist architecture such as the Recinto Modernista de Sant Pau shines with a unique elegance. Precisely, the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site is, like the Royal Artistic Circle of Barcelona, one of the Candlelight’s locations. Get your tickets now and find out what you need to know to make the most of these candlelight concerts.