This is one of the most important buildings in Barcelona that you've never heard of.
Aside from housing the Royal Catalan Academy of Fine Arts of Saint George (on the 2nd Floor - with a separate review), you will find architecture here that is truly stunning - both gothic and neoclassical in the same building. This has been one of the most important buildings in Barcelona since the 14th Century.
The original structure was finished in 1392, and the "Salón de Contraciones" provides a breathtaking view of medieval gothic architecture that has been protected from the elements and so reveals incredible details. The neoclassical façade and addition were commissioned in 1771, and provides a duality that is nothing short of stunning.
The building is truly still alive. Within the "Salón de Cónsuls" on the 2nd Floor, the Barcelona Commodities Exchange (3rd largest in the world, after Chicago and Paris) conducts business every Tuesday. Deals are closed with a handshake. The Salón Lucrecia, the Salón Dorado and the Escalera de Honor all add to the majesty of this structure.
We contracted a local tour guide with a thorough knowledge of the history and splendor of the building - it really added to the experience! Our tour guide explained that It has only been open to the public for two years, and that pre-teens must be carefully supervised.
Truly worth a visit! read more