Caixa Forum

One of Barcelona’s most exciting contemporary culture spaces often goes unnoticed to visitors, and even a fair few locals have never thought of stepping foot in the Caixa Forum. More fool them!

This amazing building was once a textile factory, built in art nouveau style by the renowned Catalan architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch, and extensively refurbished in 1992 thanks to funding by the Fundació La Caixa, the charitable arm of Catalonia’s largest savings bank.

There are no sweatshop workers or machinery left these days, but three superb exhibition spaces hosting temporary displays, plus a permanent collection of contemporary art.

As well as a regular rotation of first class exhibitions, Caixa Forum plays a full part in Barcelona’s cultural dialogue by hosting concerts, lectures, workshops and other high-brow activities.

Find the centre at the foot of Montjuic, opposite the popular Magic Fountain. It’s open every day and free to enter, although there may be a fee for special events and exhibitions. Check their website for what’s on.