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The anatomy dissection hall at the Royal Academy of Medicine

Guided visits to the Royal Academy of Medicine

The visits will take place on Wednesdays and Saturdays

One of the most singular, though least well-known monumental buildings in Barcelona, the Royal Academy of Medicine of Catalonia is part of the ensemble made up of the ancient Hospital de la Santa Creu, the current headquarters of the Catalan Library and other institutions such as the Institute of Catalan Studies. This architectural and cultural ensemble can now be visited every Wednesday and Saturday for a price of €8, and on Saturday night, on a visit including an illusionist show and a glass of cava for €20.

The Royal Academy dates from 1919 and is based in what was once the old Royal College of Surgery of Barcelona (1760-1843) and later a Faculty of Medicine (1843-1906). Architecturally speaking it is a fine example of neoclassical architecture and a visit to its interior reveals one of the most important and best conserved anatomy dissection halls in Europe.

The building was constructed from 1762 to 1763 by the architect Ventura Rodríguez. It is part of an ensemble of neoclassical buildings featuring abundant examples of the style combined with ornamental details in the Baroque style. Some of the highlights are the elaborate stained glass windows and, in the middle of the main hall, an imposing marble dissection table that is unique in Europe.

Publication date: Wednesday, 18 January 2017
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