Museu Historia de Barcelona
Uncover 2000 years of Barcelona's rich history from Roman Barcino to medieval times in the heart of the Gothic Quarter.
Introduction to Museu Historia de Barcelona
The Museu d'Història de Barcelona (MUHBA) is a premier history museum dedicated to preserving, researching, and showcasing the heritage of Barcelona from its Roman origins as Barcino through medieval times to the present day. Located in the Gothic Quarter at Plaça del Rei, the museum is housed within the medieval Palau Reial Major and the relocated Casa Padellàs, alongside extensive archaeological Roman ruins beneath the building. It offers visitors a unique journey through time with immersive exhibits and archaeological sites that reveal the city's urban and cultural evolution.
History of the Museum
The museum was inaugurated in 1943, following archaeological discoveries made during the relocation of the Casa Padellàs palace in 1931. Excavations revealed a substantial Roman district beneath the Gothic Quarter, including streets, shops, and a baptistery, which became the core of the museum's archaeological exhibition. The museum expanded over the decades to include medieval royal palace halls and other historic sites across the city, preserving Barcelona's layered history from Roman times through the medieval period and beyond.
Entrance Fees & Visiting Hours
- Regular Admission: €7.30
- Reduced (Over 65 / Under 29): €5.20
- Free for under 16 years old
- Free entrance with the Barcelona Card
- Free on Sundays after 3:00 PM and all day on the first Sunday of each month
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Sundays 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Closed Mondays and select holidays.
What Visitors Appreciate
Visitors praise the museum for its immersive experience into Barcelona’s Roman past, especially the extensive underground archaeological site where you can walk along ancient streets and see Roman shops, laundries, and a winery. The combination of the medieval palace, the Gothic chapel of Santa Àgata, and the archaeological ruins offers a comprehensive and vivid narrative of the city’s history. The museum’s location in the atmospheric Gothic Quarter also enhances the visit, making it a favorite for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.
Getting There from Plaça Espanya
To reach Museu Historia de Barcelona from Plaça Espanya:
- Take Metro Line 1 (Red Line) from Plaça Espanya towards Fondo.
- Change at Catalunya station to Metro Line 4 (Yellow Line) towards La Pau.
- Get off at Jaume I station, which is a short walk from Plaça del Rei where the museum is located.
- The total journey takes about 20-25 minutes.
Alternatively, buses V15 or V17 also connect Plaça Espanya to the Gothic Quarter near the museum.
Summary
The Museu d'Història de Barcelona offers a fascinating window into the city’s 2000-year history, from its Roman origins to medieval times. With its unique archaeological sites, historic buildings, and engaging exhibits, it is a must-visit for anyone interested in Barcelona’s rich heritage. Conveniently located in the Gothic Quarter and easily accessible from Plaça Espanya, the museum provides an unforgettable cultural experience at reasonable prices.
Museu Historia de Barcelona Business Partners
Outdoor Activities: Canyoning, Via Ferratas, Coasteering, Hiking, Orientation, Training, Team Building and Schools
