Gaudí Year 2026 officially launches next month with special celebrations in the architect’s childhood towns of Reus and Riudoms.
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The Generalitat of Catalonia has declared 2026 as Any Gaudí, commemorating the centenary of Antoni Gaudí’s death on June 10, 1926. However, the festivities will begin earlier with a double event on November 8th in the municipalities where Gaudí spent his formative years.
The official programme presentation took place this Thursday at Palau Güell, a Gaudí-designed building owned by Barcelona Provincial Council. Culture Minister Sònia Hernández revealed the government is contributing €6.5 million to the celebrations, significantly more than typical commemorations receive. She described Gaudí as “a recognised and disruptive name in 20th century architecture worldwide.”
Gaudí Year Programme Highlights Major Events
The November 8th inauguration will feature a three-part event attended by President Salvador Illa and counterparts from Balearic Islands, Cantabria and Castilla y León. These regions also contain Gaudí’s architectural works. Riudoms will host an itinerant spectacle recalling the architect’s youth, while Reus will present an institutional event and large-scale show combining art and technology at the Sanctuary of Mercy.
Furthermore, the Gaudí International Congress 2026 will take place next June at La Pedrera, focusing on scientific and disciplinary perspectives of Gaudí’s work. A more accessible exhibition at the Museum of Catalan History will analyse his creations through the architect’s main compositional parameters. The celebration will conclude with a popular festive event, details of which remain forthcoming.
Commissioner Galdric Santana emphasised Gaudí’s pioneering application of science and technology to arts. He stated one key objective involves studying Gaudí’s complete works rather than focusing on individual buildings. All Gaudí-related institutions, both public and private, are collaborating on this unprecedented alliance.
Meanwhile, Barcelona residents can explore other architectural treasures during special building opening weekends. The city’s cultural calendar continues to offer diverse experiences, including the recent Catalan language festivals that celebrate local heritage.
According to official Generalitat documents, this coordinated effort represents exceptional collaboration between all Gaudí-managing institutions. The Gaudí Year 2026 promises to be Catalonia’s most comprehensive tribute yet to its most famous architect, blending academic research with public engagement throughout the commemorative period.
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