A masterpiece by Joan Rubió i Bellver, a disciple of Gaudí

In Barcelona’s Plaça del 8 de març lies Palau de la Balmesiana, a Neo-Gothic building with Catalan modernist elements, which is the headquarters of the Balmesiana Foundation, an ecclesiastical institution dedicated to the dissemination of Catholic culture and especially of the philosopher and theologian Jaume Balmes. Every Thursday and Sunday, the building opens its doors to guided tours, and visitors are enthralled by the treasures that are hidden behind its façade. In particular, the chapel by Joan Rubió i Bellver, a disciple of Antoni Gaudí and one of the architects responsible for giving shape to the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona in the first quarter of the 20th century. His best known work is the bridge that unites the Palau de la Generalitat with the Casa dels Canonges, on Carrer del Bisbe, but without a doubt this chapel can be considered the apex of his career. In addition, it is presided over by an altarpiece with a sculpture of the crucifixion by Josep Llimona, and the images of the Virgin and of Saint John are by Camps Arnau. The large central lantern, as well as the lighting of the space, and, in general, the mixture of styles designed by Rubió, make the chapel a unique artistic amalgam.

But in the 50 minutes that the visit lasts you will see many more things of interest in Palau de la Balmesiana, which was built between 1916 and 1934. In the central courtyard stands the stairway and a wooden balcony in the form of a platform. On the main floor, which, for many years there was occupied by the Balmesiana Library, you’ll find an elegant meeting room. As well as art and architecture, your guide will speak about the history of the Balmesiana Foundation and especially of hard times like the Spanish Civil War.

Tickets can be purchased in advance. For more information, check out this link.