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Have you ever wanted to explore a place full of history, combined with one of the most beautiful and emblematic architecture in Barcelona? Then you cannot miss visiting the Plaza de la Reina María Cristina.
From the magnificent Officers' Residence - which showcases recent Franco history - to the neoclassical Palau Abadal and El Cub - a significant glass building -, this area is definitely something special. And of course, the beautiful Trade buildings offer some stunning examples of contemporary Catalan architecture.
But there are not only buildings. If you look closely at the Plaza de la Reina María Cristina, you will find an interactive sundial integrated into the pavement. Also, don't miss the buildings of the "la Caixa" group, which have several fantastic sculptural elements. In short, it is a unique area.
See the Plaza de la Reina María Cristina, an impressive architectural and historical oasis in Barcelona. Each building has its own story, from the neoclassical Palau Abadal to the important glass building of El Cub, and each reveals its part of the city's incredible history.
Crowning the square is the headquarters of Grupo Planeta, with its colorful garden façade. And at the base of the square there are some examples of modern Catalan architecture, such as "la Caixa", which unites sculptural elements. And let's not forget the interactive sundial, situated right on the sidewalk for passersby to explore. To know the time you have to place yourself on the corresponding month of the year, and the shadow we cast will indicate the approximate solar time. It is a work by Quim Deu.
Come discover some hidden gems and enjoy this extraordinary architectural and historical odyssey.
Take a tour of the incredible architectural and historical places found in the Plaza de la Reina María Cristina in Barcelona. Start at the Officers' Residence, a building that reflects the government of General Francisco Franco and is now used for events and exhibitions. Afterwards, walk to the Palau Abadal, a neoclassical building, and continue to the Grupo Planeta headquarters, which has an impressive garden façade.
For a glimpse of contemporary Catalan architecture, check out the modern Trade buildings. Enjoy the different sculptural elements that are connected to the "la Caixa" group. Finally, be sure to admire El Cub, an impressive glass building with a lot of character. On your way out, don't forget to stop by the interactive sundial located on the pavement. To know the time you have to position yourself on the corresponding month of the year, and the shadow you cast will indicate the approximate solar time. It is a work by Quim Deu.
You may not know it, but the Plaza de la Reina María Cristina in Barcelona is full of architectural and historical gems. The Officers' Residence is a good example of this: its impressive structure allows us to delve into Franco's history.
The Officers' Residence was designed by Julio Martínez-Zapatero in the 1940s and has a decidedly modernist feel. It was built with symmetrical lines and an open central patio, typical of Spanish architecture of the time. The building also has several balconies with wrought iron railings, which contribute to its distinctive style.
The Officers' Residence was built at a unique moment in the history of Spain, shortly after the arrival of Francisco Franco to power. As such, its design is steeped in symbolism: for example, the tower pays tribute to Franco's supporters who had emerged from humble origins. Furthermore, the high walls that surround the building evoke drama and power, two very important elements during the Franco regime.
In short, the Officials' Residence in the Plaza de la Reina María Cristina is an interesting way to delve into Spain's recent past, a visit that you will not forget.
The Palau Abadal stands out as the neoclassical building in the area. It has been the headquarters of Grupo Planeta since 2003 and houses one of the most notable gardens in Barcelona. The landscaped façade features a mix of various plants and shrubs, which combine to create a lush and vibrant landscape.
At night, this neoclassical building shines with its own light. It has a unique lighting system that changes depending on whether it is day or night, producing an interesting play of lights and shadows throughout the structure.
The modern glass building called "El Cub", was built in late 2018. This structure is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also serves as an important reminder that Barcelona is embracing contemporary architectural trends while still holding on to its historical roots.
If you take your time to explore every corner of Plaza de la Reina María Cristina, you will undoubtedly be rewarded with a charming architectural and historical experience!
You may not know that among the historical and architectural offerings of the Plaza de la Reina María Cristina in Barcelona lies an authentic jewel of contemporary Catalan architecture: the unique sculptural elements of La Caixa.
The buildings of "la Caixa" were designed with avant-garde materials and present a fusion of various styles in the same space, which distinguishes them from other modern structures in the city. The surfaces of its terraces are adorned with stylized sculptures that appear to move with the wind and cast shadows on the walls, resulting in a hypnotizing visual experience!
The square is also home to some interesting interactive elements, such as an interactive sundial located right in the square, this is a fun opportunity for visitors to learn more about sundials and their history.
These striking features make La Caixa one of the most memorable examples of contemporary Catalan architecture in the entire Plaza de la Reina María Cristina in Barcelona, something you won't want to miss if you ever visit!
The Plaza de la Reina María Cristina in Barcelona is home to numerous important architectural and historical monuments. One of the most impressive is undoubtedly El Cub, an impressive glass structure with a bold and modern design. It has quickly become an icon among local visitors and Barcelona architecture fans alike.
The Cub is part of the Grupo Planeta headquarters, located in the square, and offers an incredible view of its garden façade from its interior. But that's not all, it also contains an interactive sundial located on its pavement! Visitors can get up close to this intricate chronometer and discover how it works as they walk around it. This type of interactive experience has been unique to the square since its opening in 2018, adding another layer of excitement and innovation never before seen in the center of Barcelona.
So if you find yourself in the Plaza de la Reina María Cristina, be sure to visit El Cub and explore the interactive sundial firsthand! And while you're there, don't forget to check out the rest of the fantastic architecture that makes this place so special.
It cannot be denied that the Plaza de la Reina María Cristina in Barcelona is an architectural and historical paradise for those interested in the past, present and future of the city. From the neoclassical Palau Abadal, through the Officialista Residence, to the modern glass structure of El Cub, the landscape is truly impressive. With its interactive sundial, beautiful garden facade and various sculptural elements, Plaza de la Reina María Cristina is a must-see destination for anyone who wants to experience the best of what Barcelona has to offer.
Reina Maria Cristina Square
Adress: Pl Reina Maria Cristina 0, Pedralbes, Les Corts
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