Galeries Dalmau

Galeries Dalmau Barcelona: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Galeries Dalmau, situated in the cultural heart of Barcelona, stands as a seminal landmark in the history of modern art. Founded in 1906 by Josep Dalmau i Rafel, the gallery was instrumental in introducing avant-garde art movements such as Cubism, Futurism, and Dadaism to Spain. Though the gallery itself ceased operations in 1930, its pioneering influence continues to shape Barcelona’s vibrant art scene, echoed in institutions like the Museu Picasso and Fundació Joan Miró. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Galeries Dalmau’s historical significance, practical visitor information, and recommendations for exploring related attractions in Barcelona (Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya; Barcelona Cultural Institute; Artlex: Cubism; Museu Picasso Barcelona; Sala Dalmau).

Cubist caricature published in Esquella de La Torratxa on 3 May 1912

Cubist caricatures in El Noticiero Universal April 1912 issue

Francis Picabia exhibition opening at Galeries Dalmau, Barcelona, 1922

Galeries Dalmau art gallery exterior during Rafael Barradas exhibition on Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona 1925-1926

Galeries Dalmau 1912 Joaquín Torres-García exhibition in Barcelona

1912 exhibition of Joaquín Torres-García at Galeries Dalmau in Barcelona

Portrait of Josep Dalmau i Rafel, circa 1896

Josep Dalmau i Rafel in his office at Galeries Dalmau in the 1920s

Self portrait of Josep Dalmau i Rafel, oil on canvas, circa 1903

Portrait photograph of Josep Dalmau i Rafel around 1910

Juan Gris 1912 Cubist painting La Guitare with guitar and glasses, oil on canvas

Cubist painting of a man sitting in a café by Juan Gris

Portrait of Pati Dalmau by Josep Salvany i Blanch, 1921

Catalogue cover of the First Joan Miró Exhibition at Galeries Dalmau 1918

Cover of the catalog for the first Joan Miró exhibition at Galeries Dalmau in 1918

Salvador Dalí and Federico García Lorca sitting together at Turó Parc in Barcelona, 1925

View of Dalmau courtyard by Josep Salvany i Blanch, 1921

Historical Overview
Visitor Information
Suggested Itineraries
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References and External Links

Historical Overview

Origins and Founding (1906–1911)

Galeries Dalmau was established in 1906 by Josep Dalmau i Rafel, a Symbolist painter and restorer, at Carrer del Pi, 10 (Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya). Initially an antiques showroom, Dalmau’s gallery quickly shifted towards modern art, hosting exhibitions featuring artists such as Josep Mompou and Japanese prints by 1908. In 1909, a pivotal exhibition with Joan Colom i Agustí and Isidre Nonell marked the gallery’s commitment to contemporary art.

Expansion and Relocation (1911–1923)

In 1911, the gallery moved to Carrer de Portaferrissa, 18, in the Gothic Quarter. This relocation allowed Galeries Dalmau to expand its role as a hub for modern art, importing and exhibiting works by artists like El Greco and Francisco Goya, and significantly broadening Barcelona’s cultural horizons (Barcelona Cultural Institute). The gallery continued to support avant-garde artists, organizing exhibitions that connected Catalan creativity with the international art scene.

Avant-Garde Milestones

Galeries Dalmau hosted Spain’s first declared Cubism group exhibition in 1912, introducing works by Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, Jean Metzinger, and others (Artlex: Cubism). This event marked a turning point in Spanish art, inspiring local talents such as Joan Miró and Salvador Dalí, both of whom had early exhibitions at the gallery. The gallery was also a platform for movements like Fauvism, Orphism, De Stijl, and Dadaism.

Key Exhibitions and Collaborations

Noteworthy exhibitions included the 1912 Cubist show, solo exhibitions for Joan Miró (1918) and Salvador Dalí (1925), and displays of Pablo Picasso’s Blue Period works. Galeries Dalmau also published avant-garde reviews such as “391” by Francis Picabia and supported the modernist magazine “Troços,” reinforcing its reputation as a center for artistic experimentation (Museu Picasso Barcelona).

Final Years and Legacy

In 1923, the gallery moved to Passeig de Gràcia, 62, maintaining its avant-garde profile despite growing competition. Galeries Dalmau closed in 1930, but its archives and influence persist in Barcelona’s museums and cultural life. Its legacy is celebrated through research, exhibitions, and contemporary galleries like Sala Dalmau (Sala Dalmau).

Visitor Information

Current Status and Visiting Hours

Galeries Dalmau is no longer operational; its original sites at Carrer de Portaferrissa, 18, and Passeig de Gràcia, 62, are now historical locations rather than active galleries (en.wikipedia.org). Visitors can view commemorative plaques and markers at these sites year-round. There are no specific visiting hours or ticket requirements for these locations.

Nearby museums inspired by Galeries Dalmau’s avant-garde legacy have the following typical hours:

Museu Picasso: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Museu Picasso Barcelona)
Fundació Joan Miró: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Tickets and Admission

Historical Sites: No tickets required for Galeries Dalmau’s former locations.
Sala Dalmau: Contemporary gallery on C/ Consell de Cent 349, continuing the legacy with special exhibitions. Check their website for current shows and ticket details.
Nearby Museums: Entry fees and advance booking may apply for Museu Picasso and other major museums.

Accessibility

Both the Gothic Quarter and Passeig de Gràcia are centrally located and accessible by metro (Jaume I, Liceu, Passeig de Gràcia stations) and bus. The Gothic Quarter features cobbled streets; wear comfortable footwear and consider mobility needs. Major museums and Sala Dalmau are wheelchair accessible.

Nearby Attractions

Picasso Museum: Over 4,000 works by Picasso, a short walk from the Gothic Quarter.
Santa Maria del Mar: Iconic Catalan Gothic church.
El Born Cultural Centre: Exhibitions on Barcelona’s historical evolution.
Parc de la Ciutadella: Expansive park with a boating lake and Gaudí’s fountain.
Palau de la Música Catalana: UNESCO-listed Modernisme concert hall.
La Rambla: Lively boulevard with shops, cafés, and La Boqueria Market.
MACBA & CCCB: Leading contemporary art museums (timeout.com).

Tips for Visitors

Guided Tours: Join walking tours focused on Barcelona’s avant-garde and modernist heritage.
Photography: Capture the ambiance of the Gothic Quarter and historic sites.
Visitor Maps: Tourist information centers near Plaça de Catalunya and Plaça de Sant Jaume provide maps and advice (barcelona.de).
Dining: Enjoy tapas in El Born or sample local cuisine in the Gothic Quarter.
Apps: The Audiala app offers self-guided tours and insider tips.

Suggested Itineraries

Half-Day Art Walk

Start at Passeig de Gràcia, visit the original Galeries Dalmau site.
Explore the Gothic Quarter and Carrer de Portaferrissa.
Visit Picasso Museum and Santa Maria del Mar.
Coffee in El Born, unwind at Parc de la Ciutadella.

Full-Day Culture Tour

Morning: Visit Galeries Dalmau sites and Museu Picasso.
Lunch in El Born.
Afternoon: El Born Cultural Centre, Palau de la Música Catalana (guided tour).
Evening: Attend a concert or flamenco show.

Weekend for Art Lovers

Day 1: Explore Galeries Dalmau sites, Picasso Museum, Santa Maria del Mar, and El Born.
Day 2: Parc de la Ciutadella, MACBA, CCCB, La Rambla, and Gothic Quarter stroll.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I visit Galeries Dalmau today?
A: The gallery closed in 1930; you can visit its former locations and view commemorative plaques. Sala Dalmau and nearby museums continue its legacy.

Q: Are tickets required for Galeries Dalmau?
A: No ticket is necessary for the historical sites. Museum and gallery fees apply for nearby attractions.

Q: What are the visiting hours for Sala Dalmau and related museums?
A: Most open between 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM. Check official websites for details.

Q: Is the area accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Major museums are wheelchair accessible; some streets in the Gothic Quarter are uneven.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, several walking tours include Galeries Dalmau sites and the broader modernist history of Barcelona.

Conclusion

Galeries Dalmau’s pioneering spirit made Barcelona a focal point for avant-garde art, championing movements that transformed the city’s cultural identity. While the gallery itself no longer operates, its influence endures through commemorated sites, world-class museums, and contemporary galleries like Sala Dalmau. Visitors can immerse themselves in this rich legacy by exploring the Gothic Quarter, joining guided tours, and visiting key museums. With thoughtful planning and the right resources—such as the Audiala app—your journey through Barcelona’s modern art history will be both enjoyable and inspiring.