Modern Times

Barcelona has become known for its Modernist architectural buildings, and that has a reflection in the event that takes place every May in the city: the Barcelona Modernista Fair.
The Eixample of the 19th century
The first edition of the Barcelona Modernista Fair was organised in 2005 as a fun way of making the city's architectural heritage accessible to its citizens. Since then, by turning back the clock, the 19th and early 20th centuries become alive on the streets, with people dressing up in period costumes as the Barcelonians of yore and having a series of events and activities in which people can participate.

Organised by the Barcelona City Council, the activities include exhibitions, workshops, puppets, gegants, shows, antique-car exhibits, cultural itineraries, parades, and artisan stands.
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Paying tribute to our ancestors
The Fira is dedicated each year to a figure, a Modernista work or a specific event which has influenced the culture and society of the city. In 2023, that person is Lluís Domènech i Montaner (Barcelona, 1849-1923), an architect you might have heard of because he was responsible for the Palau de la Música, the Hospital de Sant Pau or Casa Fuster.

This predecessor and teacher of Gaudí’s, designed buildings in which he combined structural rationality with extraordinary fantastic elements inspired by Spanish-Arab buildings and nature. He also used the mosaic technique in his projects, and for that reason, there will be some children’s activities which will introduce them to it by having the kids put together their own art with colourful little pieces of tile.
Find your home in Barcelona
You only live… twice
One of the most popular activities is attending the Fair in full-period attire. People put together authentic outfits that make you think old Barcelonians are alive and well and walking the city streets once again. Delicate handkerchiefs, corsets, intricate blouses, satin skirts, frock coats, and top hats… It is a beautiful spectacle that will make you feel like you are about to bump into Mary Poppins herself. Period cars also take to the streets, and watching those automobiles leave the garages where they are protected from the weather all year long is a treat. You can also walk among the artisan stalls, learn about the architecture and art of that century and even waltz the day away!

You can find out about the program on their web page, but be sure to take advantage of this somewhat whimsical but thoroughly enchanting Modernista Fair 2023!


Images: firamodernistadebarcelona.cat
Barcelona has become known for its Modernist architectural buildings, and that has a reflection in the event that takes place every May in the city: the Barcelona Modernista Fair.
The Eixample of the 19th century
The first edition of the Barcelona Modernista Fair was organised in 2005 as a fun way of making the city's architectural heritage accessible to its citizens. Since then, by turning back the clock, the 19th and early 20th centuries become alive on the streets, with people dressing up in period costumes as the Barcelonians of yore and having a series of events and activities in which people can participate.

Organised by the Barcelona City Council, the activities include exhibitions, workshops, puppets, gegants, shows, antique-car exhibits, cultural itineraries, parades, and artisan stands.
Find your room in Barcelona
Paying tribute to our ancestors
The Fira is dedicated each year to a figure, a Modernista work or a specific event which has influenced the culture and society of the city. In 2023, that person is Lluís Domènech i Montaner (Barcelona, 1849-1923), an architect you might have heard of because he was responsible for the Palau de la Música, the Hospital de Sant Pau or Casa Fuster.

This predecessor and teacher of Gaudí’s, designed buildings in which he combined structural rationality with extraordinary fantastic elements inspired by Spanish-Arab buildings and nature. He also used the mosaic technique in his projects, and for that reason, there will be some children’s activities which will introduce them to it by having the kids put together their own art with colourful little pieces of tile.
Find your home in Barcelona
You only live… twice
One of the most popular activities is attending the Fair in full-period attire. People put together authentic outfits that make you think old Barcelonians are alive and well and walking the city streets once again. Delicate handkerchiefs, corsets, intricate blouses, satin skirts, frock coats, and top hats… It is a beautiful spectacle that will make you feel like you are about to bump into Mary Poppins herself. Period cars also take to the streets, and watching those automobiles leave the garages where they are protected from the weather all year long is a treat. You can also walk among the artisan stalls, learn about the architecture and art of that century and even waltz the day away!

You can find out about the program on their web page, but be sure to take advantage of this somewhat whimsical but thoroughly enchanting Modernista Fair 2023!


Images: firamodernistadebarcelona.cat