Virreina Palace is an 18th-century Baroque palace at La Rambla 99, beside La Boqueria market. It now houses La Virreina Centre de la Imatge, with free exhibitions focused largely on photography, video and contemporary visual culture. Shows change regularly and may include paintings, drawings and sculpture. The ornate façade, grand entrance and double staircase give you a reason to look beyond the galleries, while ceiling decorations and the courtyard reward a slower visit. Check the events calendar before you go to see what is on.
A palace built on La Rambla
Virreina Palace was built between 1772 and 1775 for Manuel d’Amat, who had been Viceroy of Peru. The 18th-century building is considered an example of Catalan civil Baroque architecture. Its position at La Rambla 99 places it beside La Boqueria market, on the stretch known as La Rambla de les Flors.
Look at the façade before entering, then notice the details inside. The grand entrance hall and double staircase are among the building’s defining features. Decorative stonework, the courtyard and ceiling decoration in some rooms offer more to see between the exhibitions.
Exhibitions at La Virreina Centre de la Imatge
The palace houses La Virreina Centre de la Imatge, a cultural centre for temporary exhibitions and events. Its programme focuses mainly on images, with photography, video installations and contemporary visual art among the subjects. Exhibitions change, so the centre’s events calendar is the useful place to check what will be on during your visit.
Past exhibitions have included black-and-white photography, animation and work by artists such as Amelia Riera, as well as a presentation connected to Marguerite Duras. Other shows have included paintings, drawings and sculpture. The mix depends on the programme at the time; some exhibitions may be more accessible to Spanish speakers than others.
Planning a visit
Admission is free, and the palace is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday. The centre also hosts cultural activities, so check the calendar for events as well as exhibitions. If you are choosing how much time to set aside, the exhibitions and historic rooms can fill several hours.
The building is wheelchair accessible, with an accessible entrance and restroom. Its location makes it easy to combine a visit with a walk along La Rambla or a stop at La Boqueria market.
Perguntas frequentes
Is entry to Virreina Palace free?
Yes. Admission to the palace’s exhibitions is free.
What can you see at Virreina Palace?
The programme includes temporary exhibitions focused largely on photography, video and contemporary visual art. You can also see the Baroque palace interiors, including its double staircase.
Where is Virreina Palace?
It is at La Rambla 99 in Barcelona, beside La Boqueria market.
When is Virreina Palace open?
It is open Tuesday to Sunday and closed on Monday. Check the centre’s calendar for current exhibitions and events.
