Casa Macaya

Casa Macaya is an outstanding example of Catalan Modernisme in Barcelona. The building at number 108 Passeig de Sant Joan was constructed between 1898 and 1900 by the architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch for the industrialist and stained-glass collector Macaya i Gibert. The facade stands out for its white color, accented by ocher sgraffito work by Joan Paradís. Despite its overall simplicity, the continuous balcony on the ground floor and the window crowns are distinguished by rich stone sculpture designed by Eusebi Arnau and Alfons Juyol. A special detail can be found on the capital to the left of the main entrance: a figure of a cyclist, a humorous nod to the architect, who at the time commuted by bicycle between his construction sites.

Inside, visitors are welcomed by a vestibule decorated with sgraffito and tiles, which houses a stone-carved staircase with floral motifs. Since 1976, the house has been protected as a cultural asset of national interest. Today the building serves as Palau Macaya, the center for international humanities and social sciences under the umbrella of UNESCO, making it the first institution of its kind in Spain. As part of the Fundació La Caixa, the venue promotes critical thinking and social justice through public lectures, seminars, and debates. Visitors can explore the house not only on guided tours but also attend the wide range of events held in the various halls, which are open to the general public.