Hospital de Sant Pau

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Hospital de Sant Pau (Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau) is a complex built between 1901 and 1930, designed by the Catalan modernist architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner. It is located in the Eixample district of Barcelona, Spain. The hospital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an outstanding example of modernist architecture.

History

The origins of Hospital de Sant Pau date back to the 15th century when six hospitals in Barcelona merged to form the Hospital de la Santa Creu in the Raval district. By the late 19th century, due to the growth of the city and advances in medicine, it became apparent that a new, larger facility was needed. Thanks to a generous legacy from the banker Pau Gil, who specified that his money was to be used to build a hospital that would be a leading center for medicine and surgery, the construction of a new hospital complex began.

Lluís Domènech i Montaner was commissioned to design the new hospital. His vision was to create not just a hospital, but a "garden city" for the sick. Construction started in 1901 and, although Montaner died in 1923, his son Pere Domènech i Roura took over the project, completing it in 1930.

Architecture

The Hospital de Sant Pau is renowned for its architectural beauty, characterized by its modernist buildings adorned with sculptures, stained glass, and mosaics. The complex consists of a series of pavilions, each one dedicated to a different medical specialty. These pavilions are connected by underground tunnels and are set within gardens, which were designed to provide a tranquil environment for patients.

The main building, which houses the administration, is particularly notable for its elaborate façade and the clock tower. The pavilions, built with brick and decorated with colorful tiles, feature intricate details and motifs inspired by nature, a hallmark of modernist architecture.

Modern Use

After serving as a hospital for over a century, the Hospital de Sant Pau underwent a significant renovation project to preserve its architectural heritage and adapt it for new uses. Today, it functions as a knowledge and cultural center, hosting international organizations, conferences, and exhibitions. The hospital's former pavilions have been repurposed for various institutions, including research centers and educational facilities.

Recognition

In 1997, the Hospital de Sant Pau, along with Palau de la Música Catalana, also designed by Domènech i Montaner, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional architectural and historical value. This recognition highlights the importance of the hospital not only as a healthcare facility but also as a cultural and architectural landmark.

Visiting

The Hospital de Sant Pau is open to the public, offering guided tours that explore its rich history, architecture, and the role it has played in the healthcare and social history of Barcelona. Visitors can walk through the gardens, visit the pavilions, and learn about the modernist movement in Catalonia.