In the heart of Barcelona, on the Plaça de Sant Jaume, you will find Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunyathe headquarters of Catalonia's most important institution.
It stands directly opposite one of the city's other main official buildings, Barcelona City Hall.
Today, I'm unveiling all its secrets and explaining how you can visit the place.
La Generalitat de Catalunya: article summary
What is the Palacio de la Generalitat de Catalunya?
The Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya is where the president of the Catalan government meets with his advisors to make decisions that affect the citizens of the whole of Catalonia. It is a place where the politics of Catalonia are played out.
It also boasts some of the city's finest architecture. Fortunately, the palace can be visited at certain times. What you need a moment between politics and architectural art.
What are the strengths of the site?
Looking at the Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya, you might think that many different architectural styles are present. You'd be right, because the building's construction lasted over 200 yearsbeginning in the early XVᵉ century and ending in the mid XVIIᵉ century.
You will see that the façade, which is in the clear neoclassical style, features various Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque elements. In addition to all these architectural styles, there's another highlight, which is the existence of the four granite columns on the façade. These columns have even more historical significance, as they are over 1900 years old and come from the ancient region of Troy, a city in present-day Turkey.
Things to see inside the Generalitat de Catalunya palace
In addition to the columns and facades, there are three other places to discover in this palace. Tucked away in the middle of Barcelona, you can first enjoy the site's orange tree courtyard. Its construction dates back to the middle of the XVIᵉ century and various official ceremonies are held here.
You'll then be taken on a tour of the Gothic cloister. Right in the center of Barcelona, it's a haven of peace. Architecture, a magnificent Gothic-style cloister. I assure you, you've never seen one so beautiful. A great place to spend some time relaxing on one of the benches.
Finally, your visit will take you to the Sant Jordi. This is the building's main hall, where many important ceremonies take place.
How do the visits go?
As the headquarters of Catalonia's most important institution, it's not usually possible to visit the Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya as you would many of the city's other places of interest.
However, guided tours are available mornings of the second and fourth weekends of the monthwhich you can book via Generalitat de Catalunya website in four different languages: Catalan, Spanish, English and French. I advise you to book your guided tour in advance and to indicate two possible dates, in case your first choice is not available.
It is also possible to visit the Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya on specific dates such as :
- Sant Jordi festival (April 23)
- La Mercè festival (September 24)
- and Catalonia's national holiday (September 11).
However, I'd advise you to opt for one of the weekend morning tours, booked in advance whenever possible, because it will be less crowded and quieter.
What are the times for guided tours of the Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya?
Guided tours take place on the second and fourth weekends of the month and must be booked via this site.
How much does admission cost?
Whatever your age, you don't have to pay anything to visit the palace of the Generalitat de Catalunya. So you can take advantage of this free tour.
How do I get there?
As the venue is located in the city center, you have a number of options for getting there. You can enjoy :
- from the metro by exiting at Jaume I station (line 4) or Liceu (line 3)
- bus service thanks to to lines 14, 17, 19, 40, 45, 59
Of course, you can also reach the site on foot and include this visit in your schedule.
The Palacio de la Generalitat de Catalunya is a charming place to visit. While it's not a must for most tourists, you'll appreciate its calm and exclusivity. for a relaxing time in Barcelona.
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