We have been covering a lot about Barcelona, but we still haven’t yet enough credit for its diverse range of culture and museums. Whether you're an art aficionado, history buff, or curious traveller, Barcelona's museums have something to offer everyone. Here's a guide to some of the must-visit museums in this captivating city.
Museu Picasso
Location: Carrer Montcada, 15-23
Opening times: From 1st November to 30th April: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00-19:00
From 2nd May to 31st October: Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday, 9:00-20:00 Thursday, Friday and Saturday, from 9:00-21:00
One of the most visited museums in Barcelona, the Museu Picasso, houses one of the most extensive collections of artworks by the 20th-century Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. Located in the Gothic Quarter, this museum provides a deep insight into Picasso's formative years and his close connection with Barcelona. The collection includes over 4,000 works, showcasing his evolution from classical art to cubism. The museum is housed in five adjoining medieval palaces, adding to the charm and historical ambiance.
Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC)
Location: Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc
Opening times: Summer opening times: May to September, Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00-20:00. Sundays and public holidays,10:00-15:00
Perched on Montjuïc hill, the Museu Nacional d Art de Catalunya is a grand repository of Catalan art from the Romanesque period to the mid-20th century. The museum is famous for its Romanesque church paintings, Gothic art, Renaissance and Baroque pieces, and a remarkable collection of modern art. The Palau Nacional, a majestic building from the 1929 International Exposition, offers stunning views of the city and a cultural journey through Catalonia's artistic heritage.
Fundació Joan Miró
Location: Parc de Montjuïc
Opening times: Tuesday – Saturday:10:00-20:00. Sunday: 10:00-19:00
Access to the Foundation 30 minutes before closing
Monday: Closed. Except 1 and 15 April, 20 May and 24 June 2024.
Dedicated to the works of Joan Miró, one of Catalonia's most celebrated modern artists, the Fundació Joan Miró is a must-visit for contemporary art lovers. The museum houses a comprehensive collection of Miró's work, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles, offering insight into his unique style and creative evolution. The building itself, designed by Josep Lluís Sert, is a masterpiece of modern architecture, seamlessly blending with the surrounding landscape of Montjuïc.
Museu d’Història de Barcelona (MUHBA)
Location: Plaça del Rei
Opening times: Tuesday – Saturday:10:00-19:00. Sunday: 10:00-20:00. Mondays: closed.
For those interested in the history of Barcelona, the Museu d’Història de Barcelona (MUHBA) provides an immersive experience. Located in the Gothic Quarter, the museum's underground passageways lead visitors through Roman ruins and medieval structures, offering a fascinating journey through the city's 2,000-year history. Exhibits include artifacts, maps, and multimedia displays that bring Barcelona's past to life.
CosmoCaixa
Location: Carrer d'Isaac Newton, 26
Opening times: Everyday, 10:00-20:00
CosmoCaixa is Barcelona's science museum, designed to engage visitors of all ages with the wonders of science and nature. The museum features interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a stunning replica of an Amazon rainforest. Highlights include the Geological Wall, showcasing the diversity of Earth's geological formations, and the Flooded Forest, a living ecosystem with exotic plants and animals. CosmoCaixa is perfect for families and anyone with a curiosity about the natural world.
Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA)
Location: Plaça dels Àngels, 1
Opening times: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 11:00–19:30
Tuesday: Closed
Saturday: 10:00–20:00
Sunday: 10:00–15:00
Situated in the Raval district, the Museu dArt Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA) is a hub for contemporary art enthusiasts. The museum's collection focuses on post-1945 Catalan and Spanish art, featuring works by artists such as Antoni Tàpies, Joan Brossa, and Francesc Torres. The building, designed by American architect Richard Meier, is a striking example of modernist architecture and hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, performances, and educational programs.
Museu Marítim de Barcelona
Location: Avinguda de les Drassanes
Opening times: Monday to Sunday: 10:00-20:00 (access permitted until 19:00).
Sundays after 15:00, free entry.
The Museum closes on December 25th and 26th, and on January 1st and 6th.
December 24th and 31 st the museum closest 15:00.
Housed in the historic Gothic shipyards, the Museu Marítim de Barcelona is dedicated to the city's maritime history. The museum's exhibits explore the evolution of shipbuilding, navigation, and the importance of the sea in Barcelona's development. Highlights include a full-scale replica of a 16th-century galley and various maritime artefacts. The museum also offers engaging activities and workshops, making it a great destination for families and maritime enthusiasts.
Barcelona's museums are as diverse and dynamic as the city itself, offering visitors a rich tapestry of art, history, and science. From the classical masterpieces in the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya to the avant-garde collections in MACBA, there's something to inspire every visitor. Whether you're strolling through the medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter or exploring the scenic Montjuïc, you'll find that Barcelona's cultural institutions provide endless opportunities for discovery and enrichment. So, take your time, immerse yourself in the city's museums, and let Barcelona's artistic and historical heritage captivate you.
