CCCB. Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona

Spain's largest cultural centre was opened in 1994 at the Casa de la Caritat, a former almshouse, built in 1802 on the site of a medieval monastery. The massive façade and part of the courtyard remain from the original building; the rest was rebuilt in dramatic contrast, all tilting glass and steel, by architects Piñón and Viaplana, known for the Maremàgnum shopping centre at the Barcelona port. The CCCB's exhibitions can lean toward heavy-handed didacticism, but there are occasional gems. 

There are also two large spaces for speakers, debates, and concerts. The most unique feature of this centre is the Xcèntric Archive, an archive for experimental films. The small 12-seat theatre is home to over 1,000 titles from prominent creators.