Palau Centelles is a 15th-century palace on Baixada de Sant Miquel in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. Built for the Centelles family with Montjuïc stone, it is now used by institutions of the Generalitat de Catalunya. From outside, look for its late Gothic balconies and ornamental shields, alongside Renaissance-style details. Access inside is limited because the building remains in institutional use, but special open days, including events during Corpus Christi, can provide a rare chance to see more of the palace.
A palace built for the Centelles family
Palau Centelles dates to the 15th century, when it was built as a residence for the Centelles family. Lluís de Centelles commissioned the palace, using ashlar stone from Montjuïc. Its historic setting in the Gothic Quarter places it among the older buildings of Barcelona’s central district.
The palace has been renovated, including work in the 1980s and 1990s. It is declared an Asset of Local Interest.
Architecture and access
Look for the palace’s late Gothic balconies and ornamental shields, as well as its Renaissance-style architecture. The building is now used by institutions of the Generalitat de Catalunya, including the Council of Statutory Guarantees and the Institute of Self-Government Studies. This institutional role means that not every part is open to visitors.
Special open days, including events during Corpus Christi such as l’ou com balla, can provide an opportunity to enter. Check for access on those occasions before planning your visit.
Häufige Fragen
Where is Palau Centelles?
It is at Baixada de Sant Miquel, 8, in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter.
Can you go inside Palau Centelles?
Access is limited because institutions use the building. Special open days, including events during Corpus Christi, can allow visitors inside.
What is Palau Centelles known for?
The 15th-century palace was built for the Centelles family. Its architectural details include late Gothic balconies and ornamental shields.
