The Museu d’Història de Barcelona (MUHBA) is the city’s main institution for exploring Barcelona’s rich historical legacy, from its Roman beginnings as Barcino to the modern metropolis it is today. Established in 1943, MUHBA preserves and presents the city’s evolution through a network of historic sites.
Its main headquarters is located in Plaça del Rei, in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, centered around the 15th-century Casa Padellàs which was carefully relocated stone by stone in 1931. Beneath this building lies the excavated remains of ancient Barcino, where visitors can walk through Roman streets, homes, and workshops.
MUHBA Plaça del Rei
At the heart of MUHBA, Plaça del Rei offers an extraordinary journey through time. Beneath the square lies over 4,000 m² of Roman ruins, including streets, homes, workshops, and factories, dating from the 1st century BC. Visitors descend into this remarkably preserved cityscape, getting a taste of the daily life of ancient Barcino.
Above ground, medieval landmarks include the grand Saló del Tinell, a 14th-century royal hall; the Chapel of Santa Àgata, home to a 15th-century altarpiece by Jaume Huguet; and the Gothic-Renaissance Casa Padellàs. Together, they form a vivid portrait of Barcelona’s Roman and medieval heritage.
MUHBA Network
MUHBA operates a citywide network of around 20 historic sites, each offering a unique window into Barcelona’s past. These include Roman landmarks like the Temple of Augustus and Via Sepulcral Romana, medieval sites such as the Monestir de Pedralbes and MUHBA El Call, and Civil War-era locations like Refugi 307 and Turó de la Rovira.
Other highlights include Casa Gaudí in Park Güell, where the great architect lived, and Vil·la Joana, dedicated to poet Jacint Verdaguer. Industrial heritage sites like Fabra i Coats and Casa de les Aigües complete this immersive, citywide journey through over 2,000 years of Barcelona’s history.
Address: Plaça del Rei, S/N, 08002 Barcelona, Spain | View Map
Nearest Metro: Jaume I (L4)
Phone: +34 932 56 21 00
Email: museuhistoria@bcn.cat
Website: museuhistoria.bcn.cat