Pay a visit to Recinto Modernista de Sant Pau, the largest modernist complex in the whole world, and one of the best iconic landmarks of Barcelona. Formerly known as the Hospital de Sant Pau, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the very few landmarks in the city where you can enjoy a journey back into the early 20th century.
The city of Barcelona is home to a wide array of iconic landmarks and attractions. However, one of the most offbeat, yet amongst the most significant of those is the Recinto Modernista de Sant Pau, or the Hospital de Sant Pau (the Hospital of the Holy Cross and Saint Paul). Considered to be the largest modernist complex in the entire world, this complex was founded between 1905 and 1930 and is also one of the finest examples of Catalan Modernism or art Nouveau style of architecture.
The complex was used as a public hospital for around an entire century, after which it was transformed into its former glory. It is here where you can go on a journey deep into the history of one of the most famous buildings in Barcelona. From taking a stroll amidst the pavilions to relaxing in the gardens, to even heading into the connected underground passageways and marveling at the sculptures, stained glass and mosaics, there is a lot to do and see at Recinto Modernista de Sant Pau.
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Highlights
• Enjoy exploring the Recinto Modernista de Sant Pau, or the former Hospital de Sant Pau, during your visit to the city of Barcelona
• Admire the beauty of the art Nouveau architecture of this landmark, along with its beautiful gardens as well as a myriad of exhibitions
• Gain insights about the interesting blend of history and architecture during your visit to Recinto Modernista de Sant Pau, and get a chance to witness the times of the early 20th century here
• Find out how this former medical institute transformed into a centre for knowledge and learning as you stroll through what is said to be the largest art nouveau complex in the whole world
• Marvel at the many sculptures, mosaics, stained-glass displays and other exhibits during your visit to the building
How To Reach
- By Metro: You can avail a metro ride on the Line 5 metro to get off at either the Sant Pau station or the Dos de Maig station, both of which are located the closest to this complex. From there, you can reach the building in just a 5 minutes walk.
- By Bus: You can also take a bus ride to Cartagena – Av. Gaudi bus stops from different parts of the city. Some of the buses that ply to this bus stop include bus numbers 191, 192, N0, and V23.
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Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit the Recinto Modernista de Sant Pau in Barcelona is in the springtime, between the months of March and May. The weather is mild and the flowers are in bloom during this season, making it the perfect time to explore the gardens here as well. Additionally, try to come here during the morning, when the weather is pleasant, and there are relatively fewer visitors here. This will give you a chance to explore the complex and its attractions without having to rush.
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Other Essential Information
Tips to visit Recinto Modernista de Sant Pau:
- Remember to bring your camera to capture the intricate details of the amazing architecture of this Modernist complex
- Try to have an ample amount of time on hand when you are visiting Recinto Modernista de Sant Pau so that you can explore all of the rooms, tunnels and other attractions here
- Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes instead of open-toed sandals or heels, since you will be required to walk a lot during your visit
- The complex is a popular tourist destination in Barcelona, so it is best to avoid the long entry lines by availing your tickets to the monument online, which will also help you save on time, money and energy
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Pavilion Sant Jordi
This pavilion was originally designed as a place where patients would be observed and examined, however, it was later used for paediatrics and general emergencies. There are smaller dimensioned tiles here, which were used to make their disinfection easier and more hassle-free. Today, the Pavilion Sant Jordi is used for different types of exhibitions.
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Pavilion Sant Rafael
Offering you an insight into what infirmary pavilions used to look like in the bygone eras, this pavilion is one place where you can still see the original volumes of the day room and hospitalisation wards. The interior is full of light and air, and the walls are decorated with mosaics. The pavilion has been named after Rafael Rabell, who had funded its construction.
Underground Tunnels
One of the best features of Recinto Modernista de Sant Pau is the labyrinth of underground tunnels that you can find here. These tunnels connect the different areas of the complex and pavilions with each other. When the complex was a functioning hospital, these tunnels were also used to transport patients from one place to another.
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Pavillon de la Administración and Entrance Hall
Also known as the Administration Pavilion, this is one of the most colourful, vibrant and ornate spaces of the entire complex. Today, this place is used for different events and meetings, while its interiors act as beautiful backdrops for the same.
Sala Pau Gil
This area was the former library of the complex and is currently used for different seminars and conferences. With a capacity to accommodate up to 200 people, this room is also famous for its stunning interiors, complete with rich colours, two columns as well as the use of ceramics on the ceiling.
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The Gardens
Your visit to Recinto Modernista de Sant Pau will remain incomplete without heading to the beautiful garden here. This garden is the home of a wide range of medicinal as well as flowering plants and is a great place to relax and unwind.
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