MACBA
Barcelona ES
Richard Meier
1995
Type
Museum
Tags
global cultural institutions, urban function, spaces for youngsters, Spain ccc
Visitability
Allowed
Description
Originally scheduled to coincide with the Barcelona Olympics, this contemporary art museum eventually opened its doors in 1995. Located in Plaça dels Ángels, in the Raval neighbourhood and very close to the Gothic quarter, it has played a fundamental role in shaping the cultural character of the neighbourhood. Built in Meier’s signature architectural language, strongly influenced by Le Corbusier, the museum consists of several intersected volumes dominated by a longitudinal parallelepiped measuring 120 metres by 35 metres. The entrance is a cylindrical body that leads to the main glass space, which faces south and is partly occupied by a large ramp.Natural light bathes the entrance through its large window, shaded by the distinctive brise soleil.The museum also currently uses the Convent dels Àngels as an exhibition space.