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The Hospital Sant Pau was designed by the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner (1850-1923), one of the leading figures of Catalan Art Nouveau (Modernisme). It is situated in the Eixample neighborhood a short walk from La Sagrada Família.
Dating back to 1401, the original Hospital de la Santa Creu in the Raval neighborhood served Barcelona’s invalids for centuries. But as the city rapidly grew beyond its old walls, a new site was needed, leading to the construction of the Hospital de Sant Pau.
Built between 1902 and 1930, the new Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau was designed as a “city within a city”. The Modernist masterpiece is a reflection of the era’s belief in creating beauty in all aspects of life, including public services like healthcare.
Domènech i Montaner envisioned a hospital that wasn’t merely functional, but one that could also use art and nature to aid the healing process. The hospital emphasized the use of good ventilation, open space and sunlight in the treatment of patients. The complex is made up of a series of ornate pavilions linked by underground passages, set amid peaceful gardens.
In 1997, Hospital Sant Pau was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with another of Domènech i Montaner’s masterpieces, the Palau de la Musica. He also designed the stunning Casa Fuster on Passeig de Gràcia.
Practical Information
Address: Carrer de Sant Antoni Maria Claret, 167
Getting there: The L5 metro line will take you directly to Sant Pau/Dos de Maig station, just a few minutes from the entrance.
Hours: Hospital Sant Pau is open from 9.30 to 18.30 (from the 29th of March to October) and 9.30 to 17:00 (from November to March).
Tickets: Entry costs around €17, with reduced rates for students, seniors, and children. Guided tours and audio guides are available, offering deeper insights into the site’s architectural and historical significance.
Nearby nibbles: I recommend La Paradeta, a popular self-service style seafood restaurant.