Aerial view of Barcelona cityscape and architectural landmarks.
Aerial view of Barcelona cityscape and architectural landmarks.

Barcelona

2026: A Tribute to Gaudí & the Architecture of Barcelona

Step into a city in celebration. In 2026, Barcelona marks the centenary of Antoni Gaudí with cultural events, night illuminations, and new spaces that reveal his legacy. At Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, we invite you to experience these moments with quiet intimacy and thoughtful curation.

Featured Experiences

Casa Batlló façade illuminated with colourful projection mapping from Matt Clark.
Casa Batlló Façade Mapping 2026

On 31 January and 1 February 2026, Casa Batlló’s façade is transformed into a living artwork of light, colour and movement. Designed by British artist Matt Clark (United Visual Artists) for the Gaudí 2026 centenary, this projection mapping turns Passeig de Gràcia into an open-air gallery celebrating Barcelona’s architectural heritage.

Afternoon view of Casa Milà (La Pedrera) facade.
La Pedrera Night Experience

Discover Casa Milà by night with a guided journey that culminates on its iconic rooftop. As dusk falls, an audiovisual sequence illuminates Gaudí’s organic forms, complemented by a glass of cava under the Barcelona sky. A truly sensory Modernisme experience.

Aerial view of Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona, highlighting its modernist architecture and iconic buildings for the 2026 architecture celebrations.
Barcelona 2026 World Capital of Architecture

Throughout 2026, Barcelona hosts a citywide programme of exhibitions, guided tours, talks and open buildings. Highlighting Barcelona architecture and the Gaudí centenary, the initiative positions the city as a global hub for design, culture and innovation.

Exterior of Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya hosting Gaudí centenary exhibitions.
Gaudí Centenary Exhibitions at MNAC and Museu d’Història de Catalunya

Spring 2026 sees temporary exhibitions at MNAC and the Museu d’Història de Catalunya exploring Gaudí’s work through artistic, social and technological lenses. A curated journey into the genius of Catalan Modernisme.

Interior of Palau Güell showing stone arches and ornate architectural details.
Palau Güell Centenary Programme

Throughout 2026, Palau Güell celebrates Gaudí with concerts, exhibitions and lectures. Visitors can experience this Modernist masterpiece while connecting with the city’s rich architectural heritage and cultural narrative.

Gaudí Centenary Activities at Park Güell, Casa Vicens and Torre Bellesguard

From Spring to Autumn 2026, these iconic sites host guided tours, exhibitions and educational events. Each experience highlights Gaudí’s visionary design and Barcelona’s unique Modernisme landscape.

Antoni Gaudí walking near the Sagrada Família, reflecting on the surrounding architecture.
Centenary of Antoni Gaudí’s Death

On 10 June 2026, Barcelona marks 100 years since Gaudí’s passing with official commemorations, special events, and cultural tributes across the city’s Modernist landmarks.

Interior of Palau de la Música Catalana with ornate stained glass and architectural details.
The Seven Dreams of Gaudí at Palau de la Música Catalana

On 10 June 2026, a symphonic premiere combines music and architecture, celebrating Gaudí’s centenary through a multisensory artistic experience at Palau de la Música Catalana.

Interior of the Sagrada Família, highlighting its soaring columns and intricate architectural details.
Sagrada Família Tower Milestone Events

In late June 2026, special events celebrate milestones in the construction of the Sagrada Família’s Tower of Jesus Christ, offering exclusive insights into Gaudí’s visionary architecture.

Platform at the Forum venue for the UIA 2026 World Congress of Architects in Barcelona.
UIA 2026 World Congress of Architects

From 28 June to 2 July 2026, Barcelona hosts the UIA World Congress of Architects, with talks, workshops, exhibitions and awards. A global meeting point for innovation in architecture, design and urban planning.

Two people walking through the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, exploring historic architecture.
Architecture-Themed Urban Routes and Open-House Experiences

From Summer to Autumn 2026, guided urban routes and open-house visits across Barcelona showcase the city’s Modernist and contemporary architecture, offering immersive experiences for visitors and architecture enthusiasts.

Exterior of Colònia Güell showcasing modernist architectural details and historic buildings.
Modernisme Festival at Colònia Güell

In October 2026, the Modernisme Festival celebrates Gaudí’s legacy with music, dramatisations, exhibitions and cultural activities, bringing the centenary year to life in Colònia Güell.

Three-day Gaudí & Architectural Journey in Barcelona