The Open House initiative began in France in 1984 and since then it has spread to cities all across the globe. The Open House initiative seeks to open up outstanding architecture for all to see, and to encourage dialogue about urban environments and architecture.
The project came to Barcelona in 2009, on the 25th of October 48h Open House BCN will ‘open its doors’ for its fifth edition. Visitors will have the chance to take a look inside over 150 buildings around the city that normally remain closed to the general public.
Barcelona is home to some amazing architecture. Firstly there is the diversity, with examples of building stock including Roman, mediaeval, Catalan art nouveau (and of course the works of Gaudi) and cutting edge contemporary. Then there is the quality of Barcelona’s architecture – art nouveau in Barcelona for example is unique, colourful and breathtaking. The cities medieval architecture is aesthetically and structurally unique. This is a city that oozes style, and always has done!
This year buildings opening their doors to the public include art nouveau apartments on Passeig de Gràcia to hotels, schools, libraries, shops and private homes. You can see Roman ruins, contemporary architecture, Catalan gothic, vernacular Catalan, neoclassical, Catalan modernist, and modern. Furthermore, architects and volunteers will be on hand to offer more information about the buildings.
Entry to every building is free, but if you do not feel like queuing you can buy a pass that gives priority entrance. This costs €35 for a day or €50 for a weekend. For more information on Open House Barcelona, visit their website here.
