The Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site in Barcelona is an architectural, historical and artistic ensemble declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Built in two phases between 1902 and 1930, it is the largest modernist complex in the world. For a century, it housed the facilities of the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau and is currently open to the public for visits and concerts.
A little history of the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site
The project was conceived as an innovative hospital —under the name Sant Pau— that combined advanced architecture and technology. Designed with 27 pavilions inspired by the most modern hospitals in Europe, the complex housed the former Hospital de la Santa Creu from 1926 to 2009. Following the relocation of this institution, the complex was restored and now houses organizations with a social impact in health, innovation and sustainability, such as the WHO and the European Forest Institute.
What can you do at the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site?
You can enjoy a variety of activities that highlight both its architectural heritage and its vibrant cultural life. Among the highlights are the Candlelight concerts, where live music is mixed with candlelight to create a magical atmosphere, and the light show “Els Llums de Sant Pau” that every Christmas allows us to admire the site in its full splendor.
You can also opt for guided tours or audio-guided tours. The latter are free for accompanied children under 12 years of age, unemployed people or holders of the Free Pink Card (among others); for the over 65s on the first Sunday of each month; and on Saint George’s Day thanks to its open day.
Frequently asked questions
How to get to the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site
This modernist jewel is located in the Baix-Guinardó neighborhood, near the Sagrada Familia. To get here you can use public transport, which will take you to the Sant Pau – Dos de Maig (L5) and Sagrada Familia (L2 or L4) metro stops, or buses 19, 47, 191, 192, H8, V21, V23 and D50.
Who built it?
It was built by the emblematic Catalan architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, with some later contributions by his son Pere Domènech i Roura.
How long is the visit?
Depending on the type of tickets you buy, the visit may last longer or shorter. The free visit, with which you can tour the interior of the architectural complex at your own pace, lasts approximately 60 minutes, while the guided tour lasts between 75 and 80 minutes. Both modalities will take you to the most representative spaces, such as the Hypostyle Hall, the Sant Salvador Pavilion, the gardens or the Operations House.
Barcelona is a city that overflows with beauty. There are many emblematic buildings and instagrammable places that attract millions of people every year… And that now also serve as unforgettable venues for Candlelight, the popular series of concerts performed under candlelights.