El Born CC

What to see at the El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria - El Born CC

"El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria" traces a difficult period in Barcelona’s history, the War of Spanish Succession from 1701 to 1714. This period forever marked the history of the Catalan Nation. This building, now completely reinvented, offers, under its magnificent metal structure, a view of the archaeological remains from that era.

The archaeological site in pictures

The archaeological remains

One of the highlights of the center is undoubtedly the archaeological site discovered beneath the old market. You can observe the ruins of an entire neighborhood dating back to the early 18th century, frozen in time after the destruction of Barcelona in 1714 during the War of Spanish Succession. Among the remains, you will see:

> Private houses with their inner courtyards.
> Cobbled streets, shops, and taverns, giving you a glimpse of daily life at that time.
> The remnants of the fortifications that played a crucial role in defending the city.

Permanent exhibitions

El Born CC offers exhibitions that detail the history of the War of Succession, the Siege of Barcelona, and the city's fall in 1714. These exhibitions highlight the impact of these events on the city and Catalan identity. They provide a deeper understanding of the historical, social, and political context of this key period in Catalonia's history.

Temporary exhibitions

In addition to its permanent collections, the center regularly hosts temporary exhibitions on various historical, cultural, and artistic themes. These exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, such as collective memory, Barcelona's heritage, and other historical or contemporary aspects related to the city.

Cultural events and activities

The center is also a lively space, hosting conferences, concerts, film screenings, and debates around culture and history. Visitors can deepen their knowledge by participating in interactive events.

The building itself

Don’t forget to take a moment to admire the building's architecture, an impressive example of late 19th-century modernist metal structure. The restoration has spectacularly integrated the old El Born market with the historical ruins, creating a unique atmosphere.

Visiting El Born CC

Opening hours

The El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria adjusts its hours based on the seasons and holidays. Here is detailed information on opening and closing times to help plan your visit.

> Regular opening hours:

Tuesday to Sunday: 10 AM to 8 PM

Closed on Mondays, except for specific holidays
> Seasonal variations:

In general, hours remain constant throughout the year. However, some temporary exhibitions or special events may cause occasional adjustments.
> Holidays:

The center is closed on December 25th and January 1st.
On December 24th, 31st, and January 5th, the center closes earlier, at 6 PM.
Other important details:
The last entry to the archaeological site is allowed 30 minutes before closing.
It is advisable to check the hours in advance during holiday periods or special events, as they may slightly change.

Address

Address: Plaça Comercial, 12 08003 Barcelona, Spain

Neighborhood: The center is located in the historic El Born neighborhood, one of the city's most charming areas. It is also near the Parc de la Ciutadella, perfect for a stroll, and just a few minutes' walk from the Barcelona Picasso Museum and Moco Barcelona.

Email: infoelborncc@bcn.cat

Phone: (+34) 93 256 68 51

Official website: elbornculturaimemoria.barcelona.cat

How to get there

Barcelona Metro: Line 4 (Jaume I or Barceloneta): These stations are just a few minutes' walk from the center. Jaume I station is particularly close, about a 5-10 minute walk.

Line 1 (Arc de Triomf): This station is also accessible, about a 10-15 minute walk.
Bus: Several bus lines drop you near El Born CC:

Lines 59 and D20 (Pla de Palau stop)
Lines 47, V15, V17 (Via Laietana/Correus stop)
Lines H14 and V19 (Pg. Picasso or Marquès de l’Argentera stop)
Line 120 (Placeta del Comerç stop)
Line H16 (Lluís Companys stop)

Hop On Hop Off Barcelona: The Bus Turístic has a stop at Pla de Palau, very close to El Born CC. It's a great option for those wanting to visit several tourist sites in Barcelona in one day.

Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout Barcelona, and you can be dropped off directly at the following address: Plaça Comercial, 12. A taxi ride from central areas like Plaça Catalunya takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

On foot: El Born CC is ideally located for those who enjoy exploring on foot. If you are in neighborhoods like the Gothic Quarter, Barceloneta, or Eixample, a pleasant 15-20 minute walk will bring you to the center.

Parking: If you are arriving by car, several public parking lots are nearby:

Plaça Comercial, 1
Avinguda Lluís Companys, 21
Avinguda Marquès de l’Argentera, 8-20 (Estació de França)
Avinguda Francesc Cambó, 10
Bicing and bicycles: The Bicing bike-sharing system has several stations near El Born CC:

Station 390 (Comerç, 36)
Stations 09 and 14 (Marquès de l’Argentera, 13-15)
For those traveling by bike or scooter, bike racks are available outside the center, at the corner of Comercial and Fusina.

Train: If you prefer to travel by train, the Estació de França (R13, R14, R15, R16) and Arc de Triomf (R1, R3, R4, R7) stations are close to the center, with regional and long-distance trains.

Where El Born CC is located on a map of Barcelona