Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau

Overview

The Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau is a UNESCO World Heritage complex of Art Nouveau pavilions designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner. Originally built as a hospital (1902–1930), it is one of the largest and most elaborate Modernista ensembles in the world.

Highlights

• Pavilion architecture: 12 richly decorated pavilions connected by underground corridors, each with distinct mosaic, sculpture, and stained-glass programs.
• Main entrance hall: The Sala Hipòstila features soaring vaulted ceilings covered in ceramic mosaics and sculpted capitals.
• Gardens: Beautifully landscaped grounds that connect the pavilions, designed as therapeutic spaces for patients.

History

Domènech i Montaner began designing the hospital in 1901 as a replacement for the medieval Hospital de la Santa Creu. The complex operated as a working hospital until 2009, when patients were transferred to a new building and restoration of the historic site began.

Visitor Tips

• Guided tours: English-language guided tours run several times daily and are highly recommended.
• Sagrada Família axis: The complex sits at the end of Avinguda Gaudí, directly opposite the Sagrada Família — walk between the two.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.