Barcelona City Council has provisionally approved the Metropolitan General Plan Modification (MPGM) for the future Carmen Thyssen Museum Barcelona. This significant decision will establish a new cultural institution at Palau Marcet on Passeig de Gràcia.
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The provisional approval occurred during a City Council plenary session. Votes in favour came from the municipal government, Junts per Barcelona, PP, and Vox. This plan transforms the former Comedia cinema into a dedicated cultural facility.
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Collector Carmen Thyssen expressed “great pride” in the project’s progress. She stated that the museum will offer a “singular collection” of Catalan art. This will particularly focus on the Modernist period.
The MPGM stipulates that complementary uses within the facility will constitute approximately 16% of the total area. This is a reduction from the 25% permitted by urban planning regulations. This measure aims to safeguard the project’s primary museological and cultural character.
Additionally, the proposed restaurant within the museum will not have direct street access. It will function exclusively as a service for museum visitors. This ensures the focus remains on the artistic experience.
Restoring Palau Marcet’s Heritage
The project includes a significant heritage intervention. This will restore Palau Marcet and preserve its original architectural elements. The plan combines a complete rehabilitation of the palace’s first section. It also adds a new, recessed building acting as a backdrop. This blend of old and new architecture aims to create a distinctive cultural space.
Palau Marcet, a historic building, sits on Passeig de Gràcia. This prominent avenue in Barcelona’s Eixample district is renowned for its Modernist architecture. It is home to iconic buildings like Casa Batlló and La Pedrera. The new museum will further enhance the area’s cultural appeal. The Eixample district itself is home to over 260,000 residents.
Stakeholder Optimism for Barcelona’s Culture
Joan Manuel Sevillano, Director General of the cultural division at investment firm Stoneweg, welcomed the development. He believes the museum offers a “unique opportunity to enrich and densify the city’s cultural landscape.” This new institution will add significant value.
Jaume Sabater, CEO and co-founder of Stoneweg, affirmed the Carmen Thyssen Museum Barcelona is a major company project. He added that while “there is still a way to go,” they approach it with “energy and optimism.” Their commitment underscores the project’s importance.
The museum’s focus on Catalan Modernism is particularly relevant for Barcelona. This artistic movement defined much of the city’s architectural and artistic identity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It will provide both residents and tourists with a dedicated space to explore this rich heritage.
Next Steps for Museum Development
Following its provisional approval by the City Council, the MPGM will proceed to the Subcommission of Urbanism of the Generalitat for final approval. This next step is crucial for the project’s full realisation. Officials expect the museum to become a significant addition to Barcelona‘s vibrant cultural scene.
Originally published by Europa Press Barcelona. Read original article.
