The Palau Nacional and its history
Barcelona holds one of its greatest cultural treasures on Montjuïc hill: the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC). Located in the majestic Palau Nacional, built for the 1929 International Exhibition, the building overlooks the city with one of the most impressive panoramic views of Barcelona. Its classical-style architecture, crowned by a large central dome, makes it a recognizable landmark from different parts of the city.
One of the most complete collections in Europe
The MNAC offers a unique journey through more than a thousand years of art history. Its Romanesque art collection, considered the most important in the world, is especially remarkable, with frescoes and mural paintings transferred stone by stone from 11th-century Pyrenean churches.
The museum also houses outstanding collections of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque art, as well as a rich selection of Catalan modern art. Works by Gaudí, Casas, Rusiñol or Ramon Casas narrate the creative spirit of late 19th- and early 20th-century Barcelona.
The Art of Walking: a sound walk through Montjuïc
Among the MNAC’s most innovative initiatives is The Art of Walking, a self-guided sound walk through Montjuïc Park that connects culture and health. Narrated by actress Sílvia Bel, this route invites visitors to rediscover the surroundings through photography, literature, music and landscape architecture, with Montjuïc Park as an extraordinary backdrop.
The walk can be done independently via a Web App, offering photographic dynamics with your mobile phone, high-quality complementary materials, and even unpublished texts by writer Marta Orriols. It also includes advice from health professionals on well-being, relaxation, breathing and stretching, making it a salutogenic experience, that is, one that generates health.
This project is part of the MNAC’s Arts in Health strategy, in collaboration with the Catalan Health Institute, the Catalan Public Health Agency, Montjuïc Castle and the Filmoteca de Catalunya, aligning with the WHO’s vision that the arts can contribute to well-being throughout all stages of life.
A must-visit in Montjuïc
In addition to its exhibitions and activities, the MNAC offers panoramic terraces with spectacular views over the city. It is the perfect place to combine culture, architecture and urban landscape in a single experience. Nearby you will also find the Poble Espanyol, the Teatre Grec and charming gardens to enjoy a full day in this unique setting.
The return of the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc
Sevilla (Albéniz), Goyescas (Granados) y Romance Anónimo
One of the most anticipated moments of the autumn in Barcelona will be the reactivation of the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc during La Mercè Festival in September, after being closed for several years. Very soon, we will once again enjoy this cultural spectacle where water dances to the rhythm of music and lights up in vibrant colors, creating a unique atmosphere that fascinates both children and adults.
We are truly delighted to share the return of this much-loved experience, which continues to be one of the most magical symbols of the city.
Practical information
- ? Location: Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc, s/n.
- ? Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm; Sundays and public holidays from 10 am to 3 pm (closed on Mondays except public holidays).
- ? How to get there: From Hotel Continental Barcelona (La Rambla, 138) or Hotel Continental Palacete (Rambla de Catalunya, 30), you can take the metro (L1 and L3, Plaça Espanya stop) in about 20 minutes, or enjoy a longer but very pleasant walk through the city up to Montjuïc.
Culture just minutes from your hotel
Staying at Hotel Continental Barcelona or Hotel Continental Palacete means experiencing the city with the comfort of being close to its main attractions. The MNAC, The Art of Walking and the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc are experiences that reflect the cultural richness of Barcelona, and we warmly invite you not to miss them on your next visit.
