🌆 What is 48h Open House Barcelona?
Once a year, Barcelona opens its architectural treasures to the public during 48h Open House, a two-day festival that celebrates design, heritage, and the people who built the city.
During this weekend, entry to hundreds of buildings is completely free, and every visit includes guided tours by architects, historians, or volunteers passionate about sharing the city’s architectural legacy.
Last week, I joined the 48h Open House Barcelona and explored three of the city’s most fascinating gems: Casa Macaya, Casa Thomas, and Palau Moja. Each of them tells a different story about the evolution of Catalan design and craftsmanship — from the decorative flourishes of modernisme to the grandeur of 18th-century palaces.
🕍 Casa Macaya — A Jewel of Catalan Modernisme
Located on Passeig de Sant Joan, Casa Macaya is one of Josep Puig i Cadafalch’s masterpieces. Built in 1898–1901, this elegant white building stands out with its ornate façade of sculpted stone, iron balconies, and Gothic-inspired arches.
What truly catches the eye is the entrance portal—a deeply symbolic space where sculptures by Eusebi Arnau depict an allegory of knowledge and creativity. The building’s courtyard, with its delicate columns and arches, feels almost monastic, reflecting Puig i Cadafalch’s fascination with medieval Catalonia.
During the Open House guided tour, the volunteer explained that Casa Macaya was commissioned by Roman Macaya, a wealthy merchant who wanted a residence that expressed both refinement and intellect. Today, it’s managed by La Caixa Foundation and hosts cultural activities, but for these two days, visitors could admire the interiors up close — from the coffered ceilings to the original tilework.
🏛️ Casa Thomas — Where Craftsmanship Meets Modernisme Elegance
Hidden along Carrer Mallorca, Casa Thomas was designed in 1895–1898 by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, one of the leading figures of Catalan modernisme. The building was commissioned by Josep Thomas, a printer and engraver, which explains the intricate detailing on its façade — a true celebration of the artistic trades.
The entrance hall was one of the highlights of the tour. The guide pointed out the floral ironwork, colored stained glass, and ceramic tiles that together form a harmonious blend of art and architecture. The upper floors reveal wooden ceilings and decorative plasterwork that showcase Domènech i Montaner’s mastery of combining materials.
One of the most interesting details is the dragon-shaped iron lamppost at the entrance — a recurring motif in Catalan modernisme symbolizing strength and creativity. Casa Thomas still houses design studios today, maintaining its original connection with the world of art and production.
🏰 Palau Moja — The Neoclassical Heart of the Rambla
The last stop on my 48h Open House journey was Palau Moja, situated right at the top of La Rambla, where the historic charm of old Barcelona meets the energy of the city center.
Built between 1774 and 1789 by architect Josep Mas i Dordal, Palau Moja is a neoclassical palace that once hosted Catalan nobility — including the Marquises of Moja and the Counts of Bell-lloc. The guided tour led us through elegant ballrooms, marble staircases, and frescoed ceilings, each room preserving echoes of 18th-century grandeur.
Our guide explained that Palau Moja was one of the first urban palaces to introduce symmetry and proportion inspired by classical ideals. The main staircase, lined with red marble, is a masterpiece of design precision.
Today, it serves as a cultural information center, but during 48h Open House, visitors could explore areas not normally open to the public — an unforgettable experience for anyone passionate about Barcelona’s architectural evolution.
🎟️ Why You Shouldn’t Miss 48h Open House Barcelona
- Free access: All guided visits are completely free.
- Expert guides: Each tour is led by architects, historians, or volunteers trained in the building’s history.
- Unique opportunity: Many buildings are closed to the public year-round, making this weekend the only chance to see them inside.
- Hundreds of locations: The event covers all districts of Barcelona, from Gaudí’s landmarks to contemporary design studios.
If you love architecture, history, or simply discovering new corners of Barcelona, mark your calendar for 48h Open House Barcelona 2025. It’s a cultural experience that turns the city into an open museum for two unforgettable days.
📌 Useful Information
- Website: https://www.48hopenhousebarcelona.org
- Event duration: 2 days (Saturday & Sunday, usually in late October)
- Access: Completely free
- Guides: Provided in Catalan, Spanish, and English at selected buildings
FAQ about 48h Open House Barcelona
- What is 48h Open House Barcelona?
- It’s an annual architecture festival where hundreds of buildings open their doors for free, offering guided tours and insights into the city’s design heritage.
- Is entry to the buildings free?
- Yes, all visits during the event are completely free and often guided by architects or historians.
- Do I need to book in advance?
- Some popular buildings require online pre-registration, but many can be visited freely during opening hours.
- When does the event take place?
- Usually during the last weekend of October. Dates vary slightly each year.
- Can I bring children to the tours?
- Yes, the event is family-friendly and many buildings offer accessible routes.
