The Biblioteca de Catalunya – from medieval hospital to cultural landmark
The Biblioteca de Catalunya is tucked away in the Raval neighbourhood, found in narrow streets of the old walled city of Barcelona. At the same time, it’s just a short walk from the central areas that grew out of the 19th-century Eixample expansion. In just a few minutes, you can reach the start of Passeig de Gràcia, with its famous modernist buildings like La Pedrera, or wander down the charming Rambla de Catalunya.
From medieval hospital to cultural hub
The building that now houses the Biblioteca de Catalunya used to be the Hospital de la Santa Creu de Barcelona for over five centuries. The architects of the original project reused parts of an earlier hospital founded by canon Joan Colom, and over time, other medical-related buildings were added nearby, including the Casa de Convalescència, which was built in the 16th century.
During the 20th century, the area gradually transformed into a centre for literature and learning. Before becoming the national library of Catalonia, the Biblioteca de Catalunya first served as the library for the Institut d’Estudis Catalans (IEC) – an institution that’s often seen as the Catalan equivalent of Spain’s Royal Academy of Language (RAE). The IEC set up shop in the Casa de Convalescència. Later, another part of the former hospital complex was converted into the Sant Pau – Santa Creu public library, which is part of the Barcelona Provincial Council’s network.
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What the Biblioteca de Catalunya is today
Over the years, the old hospital buildings have been adapted and extended – the library now includes underground levels with kilometres of shelving – but it still retains its striking Gothic architecture and medieval charm. The stone walls and thousands of books carry the weight of centuries of history.
Today, the library holds a huge bibliographic collection. It offers a lending service mainly aimed at researchers and historians, but it’s open to everyone. There are designated reading and study rooms, and visitors can also relax and read in the building’s garden, which has Wi-Fi access. Since 2004, some spaces in the library have also been used as a venue for theatrical performances.
How to get there
The Biblioteca de Catalunya is well-connected by public transport. The nearest metro stop is Liceu on Line 3, just a short walk away. Catalunya station is a bit further, but it offers more connections – metro, trains, and the regional FGC network. Several bus lines also serve the area, although traffic can be quite heavy. Entry to the library is free, and opening hours can be checked on its website.