The Museu Frederic Mares is one of Barcelona's most fascinating attractions, showcasing an extensive collection of Spanish sculptures from the 12th to 19th centuries alongside an extraordinary array of everyday objects collected by the sculptor Frederic Marès himself.
Information about Museu Frederic Mares
Located in the heart of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter, the Museu Frederic Mares is housed within the historic Palau Reial Major, the former Royal Palace of the Counts of Barcelona. The museum was established in 1948 to display the lifetime collection of Frederic Marès, a renowned 20th-century sculptor and passionate collector. Its exhibits include religious sculptures spanning Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque periods, as well as thousands of curiosities such as fans, pipes, clocks, photographs, and toys that reveal the lifestyle and customs of bygone eras. The museum also offers a peaceful garden entrance and a charming terrace for visitors to relax after exploring its vast collections.
Location
The Museu Frederic Mares is situated at Plaça de Sant Iu, 5, in the Gothic Quarter, just behind Barcelona Cathedral. To get there from Plaça Espanya, take the metro L3 (green line) towards Trinitat Nova and get off at Liceu station; from there, it is about a 7-minute walk to the museum through the lively La Rambla and into the Gothic Quarter. From Plaça Catalunya, it is a pleasant 10-minute walk south through the Gothic Quarter, heading towards the cathedral and then turning to Plaça de Sant Iu where the museum entrance is located through the peaceful garden courtyard.
Reviews
Visitors praise the Museu Frederic Mares for its unique and extensive sculpture collection and the eclectic everyday objects assembled by Marès. One visitor noted, "Museum very very interesting for lovers of sculpture and collecting in general. Also suitable for children. I think it is a must for those visiting Barcelona." Another review highlighted the friendly staff and the generous ticket policy: "The museum is huge so allow plenty of time if you want to see everything. One of the guides was very friendly and helpful, and the ticket allows a second visit within 6 months."
Price
- Adults: €4.20
- Youth (16-29 years) and Seniors (65+ years): €2.40
- Children under 16 years: Free
- Holders of the Barcelona Card: Free entry
- First Sunday of every month and Sundays after 3 pm: Free entry
Summary of Museu Frederic Mares
The Museu Frederic Mares stands out as a cultural gem in Barcelona, offering visitors a rich journey through Spanish sculpture history and a glimpse into the personal passions of one of the city’s most dedicated collectors. Its location in the historic Gothic Quarter, combined with its vast and diverse collections, makes it a must-visit for art lovers and curious travelers alike. With affordable pricing and free entry options, it is accessible to a wide audience eager to explore Barcelona’s artistic heritage.
