On Plaça de Sant Jaume in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, the Palau de la Generalitat is the seat of Catalonia’s government and a working institution with more than 600 years of continuous history. Its exterior combines Gothic details with a Renaissance main façade, designed by Pere Blai in 1596. Look for the Saint George statue above the balcony and the gargoyles on nearby Carrer del Bisbe. The interior is not usually open, so check whether a guided tour or a public-access day fits your plans.
A government seat with a long history
The Palau de la Generalitat stands on Plaça de Sant Jaume, opposite Barcelona’s city government building. It houses the Presidency of the Generalitat de Catalunya and remains the seat of Catalonia’s government. The institution has continued in some form for more than 600 years, giving the palace a present-day role alongside its historic architecture.
The building was originally purchased in 1400. Its principal façade, facing the square, was designed by Pere Blai in 1596 in the Renaissance style. The four dark granite columns beside the main entrance were sculpted in Troy and brought to Tarragona for Emperor Hadrian’s visit in 122 AD.
The façade and Bishop’s Bridge
From the square, look up to the balcony and its statue of Saint George, a symbol associated with Catalonia. Gothic elements sit alongside the Renaissance front, while the gargoyles on Carrer del Bisbe offer another detail to seek out.
The bridge over Carrer del Bisbe connects the palace with the Casa dels Canonges. Though it fits the street’s medieval setting, architect Joan Rubió i Bellver built it in 1928. It was the only part of a larger proposal for new Gothic-inspired buildings that the government approved.
Seeing the interior
The palace interior is not generally open to the public. Guided tours can be booked online, and public access is also available on certain dates, including Saint George’s Day on 23 April, La Mercè on 24 September and Catalonia’s National Day on 11 September. Check availability before making the trip, as access depends on the date or tour.
Preguntas frecuentes
Can you go inside the Palau de la Generalitat?
The interior is not usually open to the public. You can book a guided tour online or look for public access on certain dates.
When is the Palau de la Generalitat open to the public?
Public access is available on certain dates, including 23 April, 24 September and 11 September. Guided tours are also available on weekends; book online in advance.
How long does a visit take?
Allow 30 to 60 minutes. A guided tour takes less than an hour.
What should you see outside the palace?
Look for the Saint George statue above the balcony and the gargoyles on Carrer del Bisbe. The nearby bridge links the palace with the Casa dels Canonges.
