Desolation

Desolation Barcelona Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Barcelona stands as a city where ancient heritage and modern creativity blend seamlessly. Among its most evocative works of art is “Desolation” (Desconsol), a masterpiece by Catalan sculptor Josep Llimona. This guide offers a detailed exploration of “Desolation,” including its history, artistic significance, practical visitor information, and how it fits within Barcelona’s broader landscape of historical and cultural sites.

Whether you are an art lover, history buff, or first-time traveler, you’ll find essential insights on the origins and locations of “Desolation,” as well as up-to-date guidance on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions. Use this resource to enrich your appreciation of both the sculpture and the city that houses it.

For official hours, tickets, and events, always refer to the MNAC website, Barcelona Lowdown, and Barcelona Tourist Guide.

Origins and Artistic Background of “Desolation”
Where to See “Desolation”: Locations, Visiting Hours, and Tickets
Artistic and Cultural Significance
Practical Visitor Tips and Accessibility
Frequently Asked Questions
Context: “Desolation” Among Barcelona’s Historical Sites
Recommendations for Art Enthusiasts
Quick Reference: Key Information Table
Visuals and Interactive Media
Internal Links for Further Exploration
Plan Your Visit: Apps and Additional Resources

Origins and Artistic Background of “Desolation”

“Desolation” (Desconsol) was created by Josep Llimona in 1903 as part of a funerary monument for Mercè Casas de Vilanova at Montjuïc Cemetery. The original limestone version featured two grieving women and was titled El Dolor i la Resignació (“Pain and Resignation”). In 1907, Llimona refined his vision into a solitary, nude marble figure, which debuted at the Barcelona Exposition of Fine Arts. The city acquired this version, and it became emblematic of Catalan Modernism’s introspective and expressive power (Barcelona Lowdown).

“Desolation” is renowned for its delicate depiction of emotion—grief, contemplation, and resignation—captured with naturalistic form and psychological depth. The sculpture is a touchstone of Catalan identity and modernist artistry.

Where to See “Desolation”: Locations, Visiting Hours, and Tickets

National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC)

Location: Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc, s/n, 08038 Barcelona
Hours: Typically open Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–18:00 (extended to 20:00 in summer); closed Mondays except holidays. Always check the official MNAC website for updates.
Tickets: Standard adult €12; discounts for students and seniors; free for children under 16. Free entry on the first Sunday of each month and Saturdays after 3 pm. Purchase MNAC tickets online to avoid queues.

Montjuïc Cemetery

Location: Carrer de Mare de Déu de Port, 56-58, 08038 Barcelona
Hours: 08:00–18:00 daily
Admission: Free
Notes: Site of the original funerary version. Internal bus 107 available for navigating the large, hilly grounds (Barcelona Lowdown).

Palau de la Generalitat

Location: Plaça de Sant Jaume, 4, 08002 Barcelona
Access: The restored marble version is displayed in the entrance hall; public access is limited and often by guided tour or during special events.

Ciutadella Park

Location: Passeig de Picasso, 21, 08003 Barcelona
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
Notes: Features a plaster replica in front of the Catalan Parliament.

Artistic and Cultural Significance

“Desolation” represents a pivotal shift in Catalan sculpture from decorative to deeply personal and expressive art. Llimona’s work distills universal human sorrow into a single, poignant figure, making it a symbol of both individual emotion and collective Catalan experience. It stands as an artistic bridge between tradition and innovation, resonating as strongly today as it did over a century ago (Barcelona Lowdown).

Practical Visitor Tips and Accessibility

Planning Your Visit

MNAC: Allocate at least 2–3 hours to explore. “Desolation” is a highlight within the Modern Art collection.
Montjuïc Cemetery: Comfortable shoes recommended; the terrain is steep. Guided or self-guided walking tours are available.
Photography: Allowed in both MNAC and the cemetery for personal use, but flash and tripods are generally prohibited.

Accessibility

MNAC: Fully wheelchair accessible with elevators, ramps, and adapted tours (MNAC accessibility).
Montjuïc Cemetery: Challenging terrain, but internal shuttle helps visitors with mobility needs.

Best Times to Visit

MNAC: Early mornings or weekdays for fewer crowds; utilize free entry days for budget-friendly access.
Montjuïc Cemetery: Early mornings or late afternoons offer tranquil experiences.

Comfort and Safety

Dress: Lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes, especially in summer (Spain Inspired).
Hydration: Bring a water bottle; museum has refill stations and a café with city views.
Security: Be vigilant in public areas and avoid displaying valuables (Spain Inspired).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I purchase tickets for “Desolation” at MNAC?
A: Buy online via the MNAC website or at the museum entrance.

Q: Are discounts offered?
A: Yes—students, seniors, children under 16, and on select free-entry days.

Q: Is MNAC accessible for those with reduced mobility?
A: Yes, with comprehensive facilities and adapted tours.

Q: Can I take photos of “Desolation”?
A: Yes, but without flash or tripods; follow staff instructions.

Q: When is the best time to avoid crowds?
A: Early weekday mornings or late afternoons; avoid peak summer weekends if possible.

Context: “Desolation” Among Barcelona’s Historical Sites

While Gaudí’s architectural marvels like Sagrada Família and Park Güell are world-famous, sculptures such as “Desolation” highlight the city’s depth of artistic heritage. Its presence at MNAC, Montjuïc Cemetery, and public spaces like Ciutadella Park showcases its significance in Barcelona’s cultural narrative (Barcelona Tickets).

Recommendations for Art Enthusiasts

Pair your visit to MNAC with the nearby Joan Miró Foundation and gardens on Montjuïc for a full day of art and culture.
Join specialized Modernisme tours to discover more about Llimona and his contemporaries (The Tour Guy).
Explore Ciutadella Park for open-air art and the Parliament buildings.

Quick Reference: Key Information Table

Location	Version of “Desolation”	Address / Access	Admission	Highlights
MNAC	Original nude marble	Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc, s/n	~€12	Modernisme masterpiece
Montjuïc Cemetery	Dual-figure funerary version	Carrer de Mare de Déu de Port, 56-58	Free	Monumental funerary art
Palau de la Generalitat	Restored marble version	Plaça de Sant Jaume, 4	Limited access	Historic government building
Ciutadella Park	Plaster replica	Passeig de Picasso, 21	Free	Outdoor public art

Visuals and Interactive Media

Interactive Map of MNAC and Montjuïc Attractions

Access additional images and virtual tours on the MNAC website and Barcelona Lowdown.

Internal Links for Further Exploration

Plan Your Visit: Apps and Additional Resources

Download the Audiala app for up-to-date visiting hours, audio guides, and ticket booking for Barcelona’s cultural sites. Stay informed via Barcelona Public Transport and Barcelona Tourism.

Summary and Final Tips

Visiting “Desolation” in Barcelona provides a unique window into the soul of Catalan modernism and the city’s artistic evolution. Whether you experience it in the serene halls of MNAC, the tranquil grounds of Montjuïc Cemetery, or as a public monument, “Desolation” stands as a moving testament to universal human emotion and regional identity.