Barcelona’s Sants-Montjuïc district will take centre stage throughout April as the World Capital of Architecture programme highlights its urban landscape and community initiatives. Residents and visitors can explore a diverse calendar of events, focusing on architectural innovation and local heritage.
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La Lleialtat Santsenca, a community-managed space in Sants, serves as the district’s main hub for the event until December. In April, it hosts a wayfinding workshop on 14 April. This workshop explores orientation and accessibility in complex architectural environments. Additionally, an “Architecture Dialogues” session on 20 April will discuss the covering of the Sants railway lines. It will also cover the creation of an elevated green promenade.
The venue also features the travelling exhibition, “From Party Walls to Facades: A Legacy for the City.” This exhibition, opening with a debate on 9 April, showcases ten selected projects. These projects aim to transform city party walls into vibrant, green facades.
Exploring Sants-Montjuïc’s Architectural Gems
The programme extends across the Sants-Montjuïc district, home to over 180,000 residents, with various routes and visits. These include a tour of the Grec and Laribal gardens on 8 April. Another route on 16 April explores the former Climent brothers’ factory and the current Sants-Eixample Funeral Home. A Jane’s Walk takes place on 18 April. Participants can also experience the sensory itinerary, “Close Your Eyes and Listen to Montjuïc,” on 24 April. Furthermore, a visit to the iconic Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is scheduled.
The Spring Open Neighbourhood in La Marina, organised by 48h Open House Barcelona, opens unique and lesser-known spaces. These include the Llobregat Lighthouse and the hidden gardens of La Marina. The programme offers activities for all ages. Participatory events include a meeting titled “Let’s Improve the Neighbourhood in Sants-Montjuïc” on 18 April. Another debate, “Future Trends: Architecture, Urbanism, and Landscaping,” on 16 April, focuses on wellbeing and quality of life in ageing.
Family Activities and City-Wide Celebrations
Families can enjoy workshops such as “Skyscrapers: High-Rise Challenges” at CaixaForum, running until 26 April. The Mies van der Rohe Pavilion hosts “Draw the Pavilion with Magic” on 19 April. The Mies van der Rohe Pavilion also offers two open days on 5 and 23 April. It organises “Casual Conversations” with ARQUIN-FAD, where architects Michele & Miquel and Creus Carrasco discuss the value of public space.
The World Capital of Architecture will also prepare for Sant Jordi Day with a family festival at the Casa de l’Arquitectura de Barcelona. On 19 April, from 11:00 to 16:00, the former Gustavo Gili publishing house will host roses, books, and storytelling for children and adults. Its exterior courtyard will feature a market with architectural books and plants. Families can enjoy games, creative workshops, and music.
On Sant Jordi Day itself, 23 April, the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site will hold an open day. It offers recreational activities and educational proposals. These will cover the hospital’s history and the pavilions’ rehabilitation process.
Broader Catalan Architectural Initiatives
The April programme features a wide array of activities connecting architecture, territory, and community across Barcelona’s ten districts and other Catalan municipalities. Notable exhibitions include “Kapwani Kiwanga: Shifting States” at the Miró Foundation. This exhibition, running from 30 April to 13 September, presents Kapwani Kiwanga’s first major show in Spain. It offers a critical reading of architecture, space, and power structures.
Routes and visits also form a key part of the programme. These include a guided tour of the Llobregat desalination plant on 16 April. This facility is Europe’s largest dedicated to potable water production. Additionally, two new routes from the “Contemporary Heritage: Know, Value, Preserve” cycle will take place. Organised by AADIPA, these routes explore the Cappont Campus in Lleida and the Garrotxa region.
Debates and conferences are also prominent. “School Today, School Tomorrow” meetings will occur on 13, 15, and 17 April at La Salle Barcelona School of Architecture. The “Newest” cycle, focusing on young architectural studios led by architects under 40, visits Tarragona, Tortosa, Manresa, and Menàrguens this April. Furthermore, “Filmed Architectures,” a documentary series on architecture, urbanism, and landscape, premieres this month on betevé and continues until June.
Looking Ahead
The World Capital of Architecture, Barcelona 2026, is a significant cultural event. UNESCO and the International Union of Architects (UIA) drive this initiative. The Barcelona City Council organises it, with support from the Government of Catalonia and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Agenda. This comprehensive programme aims to engage diverse audiences with the importance of architecture and urban planning.
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Originally published by Barcelona City Council Press Room. Read original article.
