Frederic Marès Museum Barcelona

Frederic Marès, the founder of this museum, was a sculptor, historian, and professor. His rather heterogeneous collection includes the most important ensemble of Hispanic sculptures from the 12th to the 19th century.

What to see at the Frederic Marès Museum?

The Frederic Marès Museum, located in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, is a treasure for art and history enthusiasts. Founded by the sculptor and collector Frederic Marès in 1946, this museum houses an impressive collection of sculptures, notably medieval ones, and numerous art objects that tell the story of several centuries of European history.

The visit often begins with the sculpture galleries, where visitors can admire works ranging from ancient times to the 19th century, with a particular focus on Spanish Gothic and Romanesque art. The museum is renowned for its collection of medieval religious sculptures, which attract visitors eager to explore the nuances of Christian art from this era.

Beyond sculptures, the museum is also known for its “Gabinet del Col·leccionista” (Collector’s Cabinet), a surprising selection of personal items, fans, pipes, jewelry, and even old photographs gathered by Marès over the years. This space is a genuine dive into the daily life of past centuries and a tribute to one man’s passion for everyday objects.

Who was Frederic Marès?

Frederic Marès (1893-1991) was a Catalan sculptor, professor, and collector, renowned for his artistic talent and passion for art and historical objects. Born in Portbou, Spain, Marès trained at the Fine Arts School in Barcelona, where he quickly emerged as a prominent sculptor, specializing in monumental works and public sculptures still visible today in several Spanish cities.

In addition to his work as an artist, Marès was a dedicated and eclectic collector. Fascinated by historical heritage, he amassed a vast and varied collection of objects, ranging from medieval sculptures to everyday items, such as fans, jewelry, photos, and curiosities of all sorts. This personal collection became the heart of the museum that can be visited today.

Opening Hours of the Frederic Marès Museum

The museum welcomes visitors at various hours and also offers open house days.

Regular opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Sundays and public holidays: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Monday: closed, except for public holidays on Mondays.
Note that access to the rooms ends 30 minutes before closing, and evacuation of the rooms begins 15 minutes before.

Annual closing days: January 1 (New Year's Day), May 1 (Labor Day), June 24 (Sant Joan), December 25 (Christmas)

Open house days: The museum offers free admission on the following occasions: The first Sunday of each month (from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM) / Every Sunday afternoon (from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM)

Address

The Frederic Marès Museum is ideally located in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, a short walk from the magnificent Barcelona Cathedral, one of the most popular tourist sites in the city, and the fascinating Barcelona History Museum (MUHBA).

Address: Plaça de Sant Iu, 5, 08002 Barcelona

Neighborhood: Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic)

Email: museumares@bcn.cat

Phone: +34 932 563 500

Official website: Museu Frederic Marès

How to get there?

To reach the Frederic Marès Museum, located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, visitors have several transportation options. The museum is well-served and easily accessible, whether you prefer public transportation or a walk.

Barcelona Metro: The L4 line (Jaume I) is the nearest station, just a few minutes’ walk from the museum. The L3 line (Liceu) is also a convenient option, located about a 10-minute walk away.

Bus: Several bus lines stop nearby, including lines V15, V17, 47, and 120.

Hop on Hop off Barcelona : The Southern Route of the tourist bus stops in the Gothic Quarter, allowing visitors to get off and easily reach the museum.

Taxi: Taxis are a convenient option for direct access to the museum, especially if coming from afar or with luggage. Just give the address to the driver: Plaça de Sant Iu, 5.

Walking: From iconic sites like the Barcelona Cathedral or Plaça de Catalunya, the museum is just a few minutes’ walk away, offering the opportunity to enjoy the charm of the Gothic Quarter.

Bicing: For Bicing users, stations are available nearby: Plaça de Ramon Berenguer el Gran, Avinguda de la Catedral, and Plaça de Carles Pi Sunyer.

Frederic Marès Museum on a map of Barcelona: