Robert Palace

Palau Robert is an elegant neoclassical building located at the beginning of Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona, built between 1898 and 1903 by the French architect Henri Grandpierre and the Catalan architect Joan Martorell i Montells. Originally the private residence of Marquess Robert Robert i Surís, the palace is now a dynamic cultural center, hosting temporary exhibitions, concerts, and cultural activities. The building consists of three floors and a large public garden that offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. The history of Palau Robert is intrinsically linked to the figure of Marquess Robert, an influential industrialist and politician known for his support of the arts and culture. The palace reflects the elegance and luxury of the Catalan bourgeoisie of the time, with richly decorated interiors, spacious rooms, and high ceilings. After the marquess’s death in 1929, the building passed through various hands, serving as the headquarters of various institutions and government offices. During the Spanish Civil War, Palau Robert was expropriated and used as a government office. Subsequently, during the Franco regime, it was occupied by various public administrations. In the 1980s, the palace was acquired by the Generalitat de Catalunya, which restored it and transformed it into a cultural and information center open to the public. Palau Robert hosts temporary exhibitions ranging from contemporary art to photography, science to history, offering a diverse and accessible program for all. Among the most notable exhibitions have been those dedicated to Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, and Antoni Tàpies, as well as thematic exhibitions on current topics and social issues. These exhibitions not only celebrate the artistic and cultural heritage of Catalonia but also promote dialogue and critical reflection. In addition to exhibitions, Palau Robert is home to the Tourism Office of the Generalitat de Catalunya, providing detailed tourist information and assistance to visitors. The building also houses a documentation center and a specialized bookstore in publications about Barcelona and Catalonia. The gardens of Palau Robert are a green oasis in the heart of the city, designed in the style of 19th-century French gardens. These gardens are open to the public and offer a place for rest and relaxation, with ample green areas, fountains, and sculptures. The gardens frequently host outdoor cultural events, such as concerts and theatrical performances, further enriching the city’s cultural life.