The Casa de la Ciutat is the seat of Barcelona City Council and one of the city’s most emblematic institutional buildings. Built on the site of the former Roman forum, its neoclassical façade contrasts with the Gothic structure behind it, a witness to centuries of political life. Within its historic walls, works of art, architecture and memory are preserved: grand halls, sculptures, stained glass and frescoes that illustrate the passage of time. Today, alongside its civic role, the building is open to visitors, offering a glimpse into a space where governance, history and architecture come together.
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Visits, both in person and virtual, allow access to spaces such as the foyer, courtyard and main institutional rooms, all without charge.
While the main entrance is on Plaça de Sant Jaume, the Gothic doorway on Carrer de la Ciutat is opened on special occasions, a detail that points back to the building’s medieval origins.
In the foyer, it’s worth taking a moment to look at the sculptures by Catalan artists, as well as the frescoes by Sert in the Saló de Cròniques, which shift subtly with the changing light.
This was already a centre of power in Roman times: the forum of ancient Barcino once stood here.
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Barcelona Walking Tours Gothic
Explore the historical essence of Barcelona with a walking tour of the Gothic Quarter, the oldest part of the city. Accompanied by a professional guide, you will travel from Roman Barcino to medieval Barcelona, discovering secrets, legends and charming corners. This tour will take you through cobbled streets, iconic squares and unique monuments as you learn about the most important episodes in the history of the city. An enjoyable, cultural experience, perfect for those who want to understand Barcelona from its roots.
From €25.65
