Ciutadella Park Glasshouse
An iron and glass space built for the 1888 Universal Exposition
Barcelona’s Ciutadella Park still preserves an iron-framed glasshouse constructed in 1884. An enclosure made up of three structures for the cultivation of tropical plants was built next to Passeig de Picasso in Ciutadella Park for the 1888 Barcelona Universal Exposition.
Why visit the Glasshouse?
The Glasshouse, along with the Shade House, the Martorell Geology Museum and the Castle of the Three Dragons, was one of the structures created in Ciutadella Park for the 1888 Barcelona Universal Exposition. Its specific purpose was the cultivation and exhibition of tropical plants that would not resist Barcelona’s Mediterranean climate.
Built in 1884 by Josep Amargós i Samaranch, the glasshouse occupies a surface area of 950 m² divided into three structures, of which the central one is the tallest and open at each end. Like many late 19th-century buildings the glasshouse used materials that were then considered to be cutting edge, such as iron and glass. Its classically inspired decorative elements are also in cast iron.
How do you get to the Glasshouse?
Hop off at the Pla de Palau – Parc de la Ciutadella stop on the Red Route of Barcelona Bus Turístic to get to the Glasshouse, which is in the park.
For the most curious of you
- Did you know? In addition to being used for the cultivation of various species, the three structures of the glasshouse have also been used as a bar and restaurant and a venue for wedding receptions, concerts and bonsai exhibitions.
