Casa Macaya

Casa Macaya Barcelona: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction to Casa Macaya

Casa Macaya, also known as Palau Macaya, is a striking example of Catalan Modernisme and one of Barcelona’s most significant architectural landmarks. Situated in the Eixample district at Passeig de Sant Joan 108, this historic mansion was commissioned by the industrialist Romà Macaya i Gibert and designed by the renowned architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch. Completed in 1901, Casa Macaya showcases the aspirations of Barcelona’s bourgeoisie during a period of urban expansion and cultural renaissance, blending Modernista artistry with Civil Gothic influences. Its intricate stone ornamentation, sgraffito by Joan Paradís, and ironwork by Manuel Ballarín make it a testament to Catalan identity and innovation (Barcelona.cat, Espai Caixa website).

Originally a private family residence, Casa Macaya has since evolved into a vibrant cultural hub under the stewardship of the “la Caixa” Foundation. Following a restoration completed in 2012, it now serves as CaixaForum Macaya (Espai Caixa), hosting exhibitions, debates, and educational programs focused on social sciences, environmental conservation, and sustainability. This comprehensive guide provides essential information on Casa Macaya’s history, architecture, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Origins and Commissioning
Architectural Context and Modernist Significance
The Macaya Family and Early Use
Transition to Public and Cultural Use
Restoration and Contemporary Role
Visitor Information
Architectural Highlights
Exhibitions, Events, and Guided Tours
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion
References and Further Reading

Origins and Commissioning

Commissioned by Romà Macaya i Gibert, a prominent textile industrialist, Casa Macaya was envisioned as a family residence and as a symbol of the Macaya family’s social standing during Barcelona’s rapid urban expansion (barcelona.zone, barcelonawithmarta.com). The site, in the newly developed Eixample district, was part of the city’s modernization following the demolition of the medieval walls. Architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch began the project in 1898, completing the mansion in 1901 (irbarcelona.org, es.wikipedia.org).

Architectural Context and Modernist Significance

Casa Macaya is a quintessential example of Catalan Modernisme, a movement that flourished in Barcelona at the turn of the 20th century. This style is marked by innovative use of materials, nature-inspired motifs, and a drive to assert Catalan identity. The building blends Modernista and Civil Gothic elements, featuring a white stucco façade with ochre sgraffito by Joan Paradís, stone ornamentation by Eusebi Arnau and Alfons Juyol, and elaborate ironwork by Manuel Ballarín (barcelona.cat, es.wikipedia.org). The façade’s apparent simplicity is contrasted by intricate details around windows and balconies, while inside, colorful tiles and a grand staircase with floral motifs lead to the main residence.

The Macaya Family and Early Use

The Macaya family occupied the residence from its completion until 1914. The house was designed for multi-generational living: Romà Macaya and his wife on the main floor, their eldest son’s family above, and the younger son on the third floor. The ground floor housed carriages and, later, automobiles, reflecting the family’s modern outlook (barcelonawithmarta.com). The strategic investment in the Eixample area paid off, as it quickly became a fashionable district.

Transition to Public and Cultural Use

After the family’s departure, Casa Macaya was acquired by La Caixa in 1947 and adapted for public use, including as headquarters for the Institute for the Deaf, Dumb, and Blind (irbarcelona.org). Later, it became the first headquarters of the “la Caixa” Foundation’s Cultural Centre. In 1976, it was declared a Cultural Asset of National Interest by the Generalitat of Catalonia (es.wikipedia.org, webarcelona.net).

Restoration and Contemporary Role

A major refurbishment in 2012 transformed Casa Macaya into Espai Caixa (CaixaForum Macaya), dedicated to fostering collaboration on social and environmental issues (irbarcelona.org, barcelona.zone). The building hosts debates, exhibitions, workshops, and educational activities. Facilities include an auditorium, multipurpose rooms, and fully accessible amenities (es.wikipedia.org, meet.barcelona).

Visitor Information

Casa Macaya Visiting Hours

Monday to Saturday: 09:00–14:00 and 16:00–20:00
Sundays and Holidays: Closed
Hours may vary for special events or holidays. Always confirm via the official website prior to your visit.

Tickets and Admission

General Entry: Free for exhibitions and most events.
Guided Tours: Available for a nominal fee (typically €3–€5); advance booking recommended.
Special Events: Some workshops or lectures may require registration or a small fee.

Directions and Accessibility

Address: Passeig de Sant Joan 108, 08037 Barcelona
Metro: Verdaguer (Lines L4 and L5)
Bus: Lines 6, 33, 34, H8, and others
Cycling: Bike lanes and Bicing stations nearby
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms.

Travel Tips

Weekday Visits: Mornings and late afternoons are typically quieter.
Combine Attractions: Plan your visit alongside nearby Modernist sites.
Photography: Allowed without flash in most areas; please check signage.
Stay Alert: As with all busy tourist sites, watch for pickpockets.

Architectural Highlights

Casa Macaya’s architectural features include:

White Façade and Sgraffito: Ochre sgraffito patterns adorn the elegant exterior.
Carved Stonework: Floral and symbolic motifs frame doors and windows.
Towers and Sculptures: Twin towers and allegorical figures by Eusebi Arnau.
Ironwork: Manuel Ballarín’s balconies and grilles with flowing, vegetal designs.
Grand Staircase and Courtyard: Natural light bathes the interiors, highlighting stained glass and polychrome tiles.

Inside, the “planta noble” (main floor) preserves original decorative arts and demonstrates the Modernista commitment to artisanal craftsmanship (arquitecturacatalana.cat).

Exhibitions, Events, and Guided Tours

Exhibitions: Rotating displays on art, social innovation, and environmental sustainability.
Workshops & Lectures: Regular events open to the public—check the event calendar.
Guided Tours: Recommended for a deeper understanding of the building’s history and design. Tours are primarily in Catalan and Spanish; check ahead for language options.

Nearby Attractions

Sagrada Família: Gaudí’s iconic basilica, a 10-minute walk away
Casa de les Punxes: Another Puig i Cadafalch masterpiece
Casa Milà (La Pedrera): Modernisme landmark on Passeig de Gràcia
Casa Batlló: Gaudí’s colorful creation nearby
Arc de Triomf and Parc de la Ciutadella: Ideal for a full day of exploring Barcelona’s architectural and cultural offerings

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Casa Macaya’s opening hours?
Monday to Saturday, 09:00–14:00 and 16:00–20:00; closed Sundays and holidays.

Is entry free?
Yes, general entry to exhibitions is free. Guided tours and select events may require a small fee.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, usually on weekends or by reservation. Book in advance for English-speaking tours.

Is Casa Macaya wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the building is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and adapted facilities.

How do I get there?
Take the Metro to Verdaguer (Lines L4 and L5) or use nearby bus routes.

Can I visit other Modernist sites nearby?
Absolutely. Casa Macaya is close to Sagrada Família, Casa de les Punxes, Casa Milà, and Casa Batlló.

Conclusion

Casa Macaya is a jewel of Catalan Modernisme and a living symbol of Barcelona’s architectural and cultural evolution. With its elegant design by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, rich artistic details, and vibrant role as a center for social and cultural innovation, Casa Macaya offers visitors a uniquely immersive experience. Its convenient location, free general admission, and accessibility make it an essential stop for architecture enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike.

To plan your visit, check the latest information on exhibitions, guided tours, and hours through official sources. Download the Audiala app for guided tours and updates, and explore more about Barcelona’s modernist treasures through our related articles and recommended resources.