Discover the Modernist Site of Sant Pau, an architectural jewel with more than 600 years of history as a hospital before evolving into an international cultural centre. From the 15th century’s Hospital de la Santa Creu, to the modern pavilions designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, its transformation has marked a new era. Visits to the grounds reveal majestic pavilions, especially the Administration Pavilion, while the gardens emphasise the inspirational connection between nature and modernism.

Christmas exhibitions and events such as “The lights of Sant Pau” enrich the experience, while the store offers exclusive gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of Domènech i Montaner’s work. We invite you to discover this authentic jewel of Barcelona through a guided tour, temporary exhibitions or by joining one of the music concerts that are organised there.

The birth of a modernist hospital

With origins stretching back to the 15th century, the Hospital de la Santa Creu emerged from the merger of several hospitals under the patronage of King Martí l’Humà. By 1450 it was one of the largest health centres in Europe. The growth of the city and medical advances demanded a new building, and architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner tackled the colossal task of creating  a unique modernist hospital. Dedicated to Sant Pau, the new building was built between 1902 and 1930 with an innovative plan, emphasising the importance of open space.

After more than a century as a leading hospital, Sant Pau moved to more modern facilities in 2009. This move gave rise to a new era, the meticulous renovation of the Modernist Campus and its transformation into a knowledge centre of international relevance and a cultural icon.

From the Hypostyle Hall to the Administration Pavilion

Immersion in the magic of Sant Pau Modernista begins in the Sala Hypòstila, formerly the emergency department, which takes visitors down into the roots of this hospital. Passing through the evocative tunnels you  discover the Sant Salvador Pavilion, the first operational building in use from 1916. This stage of your visit reveals the rich history of the former Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau and the impact and career of the architect who gave life to this masterpiece.

The historical re-enactment comes to life ‘la Casa de Operaciones’ and the Sant Rafael Pavilion, a window on the 1920s and medical practice in the city of Barcelona. The exhibition ‘Patient and doctor, from narration to objectivity’ enriches our understanding of that time. The culmination of the tour is the majestic Administration Pavilion, the prominent heart of the whole complex. The heritage rooms, resplendent with light, colours, mosaics and sculptures, reveal impressive decorative wealth, a memorable end to this exclusive cultural immersive experience.

Sustainable gardens and green spaces

Delight in a peaceful walk through the lush gardens that surround the hospital while in your headphones play ‘Nessun dorma’, the most famous aria from Turandot by Giacomo Puccini, one of the principal operas in Barcelona Obertura’s winter season, which fits perfectly with this green oasis in the heart of the city. Look for the picturesque corners and revel in the opportunity to capture images of architecture and nature in harmony.

Walking among the many flowers and plants, including imposing orange trees, you will experience firsthand how nature was not only the source of inspiration for modernism, but also a fundamental tool in the healing process of the sick. Perhaps surprisingly, the Modernist Campus holds the Biosphere certificate for Sustainable Tourism, a seal that distinguishes more than 400 companies in Barcelona, committed to sustainability and the values of the 2030 Agenda and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

Exhibitions, concerts and discussion cycles

Explore the diversity of temporary exhibitions and events that regularly take place at this unique hospital, offering a unique perspective on the rich history and culture of Barcelona. Until February 29th, you have the opportunity to explore the exhibition “Hospital architecture studied by Domènech i Montaner“. This exhibition will take you through the plans and details of more than 240 hospitals around the world that the architect studied before conceiving the Santa Creu i Sant Pau hospitals at the beginning of the 20th century.

You will not only be able to follow the evolution of hospital architecture to that point, but also see how the Catalan genius did not limit himself to following common trends of the time. Instead, he took the prevailing forms as a starting point, incorporating the latest innovations to create a coherent and beautiful ensemble that not only fulfilled its practical functions, but also became an architectural work of art.

Among many other activities that take place within the venue, details on their website include concerts paying tribute to renowned music groups and artists including ABBA or Ed Sheeran, activities for children to reinterpret the Domènech i Montaner’s creations. or discussion cycles that will take you into the history of the venue.

“Els Llums de Sant Pau”: a modernist Christmas

“Els Llums de Sant Pau” (The lights of Sant Pau) event transforms the Art Nouveau Site into a Christmassy spectacle of lights and colours. Until January 14th this historic space undergoes a magical metamorphosis, transporting visitors to a festive world. The audiovisual effects run through many rooms and open spaces of the old hospital, with light as the main protagonist, with different backgrounds and shapes mixed with creative and innovative technological ideas.

New features this year include an ice rink, a video mapping show and a 16-metre Christmas tree, illuminated by more than 50,000 points of light. Also a giant “Tio” and an interactive train taking a route through a world full of sweets and gifts, along with a nativity scene and a 20-metre tunnel of lights. In addition, you can leave your Christmas wishes on a giant cloud or walk around the ‘North Pole’, completing an experience that awakens excitement in all ages.

A store with many surprises

Before you leave, immerse yourself in modernism’s charms in the shop at the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site. Each item is a gateway to the continuity in time and space of the impressive architectural complex. Here, visitors have the opportunity to take home a carefully selected selection of gifts and souvenirs that capture the unique essence of Domènech i Montaner’s work, Modernisme and the institutions that give life to the Modernist Precinct, Barcelona and Catalonia.

The store is more than just shopping; It is a corner where art and architecture lovers can find insightful publications, exclusive merchandise and other objects related to the modernist legacy. Each item is carefully  selected that transcends the experience of the visit, allowing the magic of modernism to extend into the daily life of those who discover it.