Allegory of Spain undecided between Monarchy and Republic, illustrated in La Flaca magazine, May 15, 1865

National Library Of Catalonia

National Library of Catalonia: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Barcelona Historical Sites

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The National Library of Catalonia (Biblioteca de Catalunya) is a cornerstone of Barcelona’s cultural and historical landscape, set within the stunning 15th-century Gothic complex of the former Hospital de la Santa Creu. Located in the vibrant Raval district, the library serves as a guardian of Catalan heritage, preserving over five million items that span centuries of regional literature, history, and art. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on the library’s significance, architectural highlights, collections, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and tips for making the most of your visit to one of Barcelona’s most iconic historical sites (official Biblioteca de Catalunya website, Evendo’s guide, Why Visit Barcelona).

Alta Creu monument in Sabadell, Catalonia, Spain

Historical painting of the Army of Catalonia in 1713

Statue of Rafael Casanova at Paseo de San Juan in 1907

Notification of the resolution to continue the war issued by the Generalitat of Catalonia in 1713

Portrait of composer and pianist Manuel Jovés

Manuscript page featuring Agnus Dei from Barcelone Bibliothèque de Catalogne

Stained glass window depicting Agnus Dei symbol in Barcelona church

First folio of the Mirall de trobar manuscript by Berenguer d'Anoia

Historical letter from the Consellers of Barcelona continuing the War of Spanish Succession on 24 July 1713

General news of Europe in 1714 historical map

Interior of the Viceregal Palace in Lima with Halberdiers of the Royal Infantry Guard and Viceroy's throne

Title page of the Catalan incunable Quesits o perquens, Barcelona, 1499

Monument to Rafael Casanova located on Passeig de Sant Joan

Page 24 of Razos de trobar manuscript by Raimon Vidal, Biblioteca de Catalunya

First page of Regiment preservatiu e curatiu de la pestilència by Lluís Alcanyís from Biblioteca de Catalunya collection

Facsimile of the first folio of Regiment preservatiu e curatiu de la pestilència by Lluís Alcanyís

Manuscript page of Regles de trobar by Jaufre de Foixa in Biblioteca de Catalunya

Daily report of the siege of Barcelona on July 17, 1714

Albumin-painted watercolor portrait of a woman from 1860

Group of people gathered in a library for a meeting

Introduction
Historical Background and Foundation
Architectural Evolution and Highlights
Growth and Significance of Collections
The Library in Times of Political Turmoil
Role in Catalan Cultural Identity
Notable Collections and Treasures
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Facilities and Amenities
Visitor Experience and Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Nearby Attractions
Conclusion
References

Historical Background and Foundation

Founded in 1907 during the Catalan cultural renaissance, the Biblioteca de Catalunya was established to collect and preserve works related to Catalonia and the broader Catalan-speaking world. Originally the library of the Institut d’Estudis Catalans, it quickly became a focal point for regional scholarship and cultural revival (Evendo).

Architectural Evolution and Highlights

The library is housed in the former Hospital de la Santa Creu, a masterpiece of 15th-century Catalan Gothic civil architecture, located at Carrer de l’Hospital, 56. The building’s transformation from a medieval hospital to a modern research institution exemplifies Barcelona’s dedication to adaptive reuse and heritage conservation. Notable features include:

Cloisters and Courtyards: Originally designed for patient convalescence, now tranquil spaces for study and reflection.
Vaulted Naves: Former hospital wards transformed into luminous reading rooms with soaring Gothic vaults.
Historic Details: Medieval tiles, stone inscriptions, and wrought-iron fixtures preserve the building’s historical character.

Since its relocation to this site in 1931, the library has undergone major restorations and modernizations, notably in 1993, to accommodate its expanding collections and research facilities (patrimoni.gencat.cat, architectureofcities.com).

Growth and Significance of Collections

The library’s holdings exceed five million items, including:

Books, periodicals, and legal deposit publications since 1914
Over 40,000 manuscripts, including medieval codices and incunabula
Maps, engravings, prints, and photographs
Extensive music archives and audiovisual materials

The legal deposit system ensures every work published in Catalonia is preserved for posterity, making the library a critical resource for scholars and cultural enthusiasts alike.

The Library in Times of Political Turmoil

Throughout the Spanish Civil War and subsequent Franco dictatorship, the Biblioteca de Catalunya played a crucial role in safeguarding Catalan culture and language during periods of censorship and repression. The restoration of democracy and the official recognition of the library as Catalonia’s national library in 1981 marked a new era of cultural revival and public engagement (Why Visit Barcelona).

Role in Catalan Cultural Identity

As both a repository and a cultural hub, the library stands as a symbol of Catalan identity and resilience. It hosts exhibitions, lectures, and educational programs celebrating Catalan authors, artists, and historical milestones. The ongoing digitization of manuscripts and rare materials further expands its reach and supports global research.

Notable Collections and Treasures

Highlights of the library’s unique collections include:

Llibre dels Fets: A 13th-century chronicle by King James I of Aragon.
Cançoner Gil: A medieval songbook of early Catalan poetry.
Organyà Homilies: The oldest known literary text in Catalan.
Personal Archives: Collections from figures such as Joan Maragall, Mercè Rodoreda, and Joan Miró.
Music Manuscripts: Original scores and materials from renowned Catalan composers.
Digital Resources: Extensive digitization efforts, including the digital collections portal.

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Location: Carrer de l’Hospital, 56, Barcelona.

Opening Hours:

Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (may vary seasonally or on holidays)
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Sunday and public holidays: Closed
Always check the official website for current visiting hours.

Admission:

Entry to the main reading rooms and exhibitions is free.
Registration with a valid photo ID is required to access reading rooms.
Guided tours and special exhibitions may require advance booking or a fee (approximately €25 per group).

Accessibility:

Fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms.
Staff available to assist visitors with special needs.

Photography:

Permitted in public areas and courtyards.
Prohibited inside reading rooms and around rare or fragile materials.

Getting There:

Metro: Liceu (L3) and Sant Antoni (L2) stations nearby.
Bus: Several lines service the area.
Bike racks available for cyclists.

(Barcelona Secreta, Triphobo)

Facilities and Amenities

Reading Rooms: Spacious, climate-controlled, and well-lit.
Wi-Fi: Complimentary throughout the building.
Lockers: Required for storing bags and large items.
Restrooms: Clean and accessible.
Onsite Bookshop: Offers publications on Catalan culture and reproductions of manuscripts.

Visitor Experience and Tips

Plan Ahead: Check for current opening hours, events, and guided tour availability.
Quiet Environment: Maintain silence in reading areas.
Combine Your Visit: The library is near attractions like Boqueria Market, MACBA, the Gothic Quarter, and the Museu Picasso.
Guided Tours: Available in Catalan and Spanish; English tours by advance request.
Virtual Resources: Explore digitized collections and exhibitions online.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, admission is free. Some exhibitions or guided tours may require a fee.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, tours are available in multiple languages and should be booked in advance.

Q: Can I take photographs inside?
A: Photography is allowed in public areas but restricted in reading rooms.

Q: Is the library accessible?
A: Yes, the building is fully accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.

Q: What do I need for registration?
A: A valid photo ID is required to register for access to reading rooms.

Nearby Attractions

The National Library of Catalonia’s central location in the Raval district makes it an ideal starting point for exploring other historical and cultural sites, including:

MACBA (Museum of Contemporary Art)

(locabarcelona.com, SH Barcelona)

Conclusion

The National Library of Catalonia is a living monument to Catalan culture, history, and architectural splendor. Its vast collections, engaging programs, and breathtaking Gothic setting offer an unparalleled glimpse into the soul of Barcelona. Whether you are a scholar, tourist, or curious local, a visit to the Biblioteca de Catalunya is an essential part of discovering the city’s enduring heritage. For the latest visiting hours, ticketing information, and cultural updates, consult the official Biblioteca de Catalunya website and consider downloading the Audiala app for curated cultural content and event updates.