The Virreina Palace - Situated on the famous La Rambla avenue, today it houses the headquarters of the city council's Culture and hosts various temporary art exhibitions and cultural events. This, as well as every architecturally well designed building in Barcelona belongs to Modernism.
It was built in the period between 1772 and 1778. It belonged to Manuel d'Amat i de Junyent, who was Viceroy of Peru. It was named after his wife’s title, who was a Virreina. The palace was built in a style between baroque and rococo, and it was designed by Carles Grau. Grau, also a sculptor, created the window hoods and the vases which decorate the building's skyline. On the exterior of the palace is a statue of Our Lady of the Rosary.
The palace interior perfectly complements baroque exterior. There is a wide staircase in the center part that leads to the very top of the palace. Both from the inside and outside, the palace exudes mystery and power.
The owner of the palace wanted to display his power and wealth to everyone. We can conclude that he succeeded, given that millions of tourist visit his palace each year.
Temporary art, photography and literature exhibitions have marked this place as a cultural center in the most popular street in Barcelona.
The Entrance is FREE.
Working hours:
Tuesday – Sunday, 12.00h – 20.00h
Author of the text:
Maja Glavaš, Bachelor with Honours in Communicology. Works in Tourism.
Contact: [email protected]; instagram: travel_europe1
