A home for a choir
The Orfeó Català, a choir founded in 1891, wanted its own hall. Barcelona's businessmen and music lovers paid for it, and it opened in February 1908.
Urban Tales › Barcelona › Palau de la Música Catalana
Palau de la Música: a concert hall made of light
Built between 1905 and 1908 by Lluís Domènech i Montaner for a Catalan choir, the Palau de la Música is a concert hall where almost every surface is glass, mosaic or sculpture. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Built1905–1908
ArchitectLluís Domènech i Montaner
Built forthe Orfeó Català choir
UNESCOsince 1997
Hear the Palau de la Música Catalana story, in the app's voice
A short preview. The full story plays on its own when you walk up to it with Urban Tales.
Three stories most visitors miss
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The glass sun
In the middle of the ceiling hangs a huge stained-glass skylight that bulges downwards like an upturned dome, letting daylight into the hall.
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Muses on the stage
The back wall of the stage is decorated with figures of muses, half sculpture coming out of the wall and half mosaic, as if the music were bringing them to life.
TipThe guided tour shows the hall in daylight, when the skylight is at its best. Better still, buy a ticket for a concert. With Urban Tales running, its story plays as you reach the narrow street outside.
Nearby landmarks
Palau de la Música Catalana: common questions
Who designed the Palau de la Música Catalana?
Lluís Domènech i Montaner, one of the leading architects of Catalan Modernisme. It was built between 1905 and 1908.
Can you visit the Palau de la Música without a concert?
Yes, with a guided tour. Check the official site for times and languages.
Is the Palau de la Música a World Heritage Site?
Yes, since 1997, together with the Hospital de Sant Pau, also by Domènech i Montaner.