Sant Jordi Palace (Palau Sant Jordi)
Barcelona’s iconic multipurpose arena designed by Arata Isozaki, a masterpiece of Olympic architecture.
History of Sant Jordi Palace
The Palau Sant Jordi was designed by Japanese architect Arata Isozaki and opened in 1990 as part of Barcelona's preparations for the 1992 Olympic Games. It is located in the Olympic Ring on Montjuïc hill and stands as a symbol of Barcelona’s urban renewal in the early 1990s. The arena’s dome, raised using innovative hydraulic technology, resembles a turtle, harmonizing with the mountain setting and echoing Antoni Gaudí’s organic architectural style. Since its inauguration, it has hosted a variety of sporting, cultural, and recreational events, with a seating capacity of up to 18,000 people.[1][2][3][4][7]
Entrance Fee Details
Sant Jordi Palace primarily functions as a venue for events such as concerts, sports competitions, and exhibitions. Entrance fees vary depending on the event hosted. There is no general admission fee to visit the arena itself outside of event days. Visitors are encouraged to check the official event schedules and ticketing platforms for specific pricing and availability.
What Visitors Appreciate About Sant Jordi Palace
- Its striking avant-garde architecture and innovative engineering.
- Versatility as a venue hosting a wide range of events from sports to concerts.
- Its location within the Olympic Ring, surrounded by other historic sports venues and scenic Montjuïc park.
- The harmonious design that integrates with Barcelona’s landscape and architectural heritage.
- Proximity to the Sant Jordi Club, a smaller adjacent concert venue with a capacity of 4,620 people.[3][4]
How to Get to Sant Jordi Palace from Plaça Espanya, Barcelona
Sant Jordi Palace is located on Montjuïc hill, approximately 2 km from Plaça Espanya. To reach it:
- Metro & Bus: Take the L1 (red line) or L3 (green line) metro to Espanya station, then transfer to bus line 150 towards Montjuïc, which stops near the Olympic Ring and Palau Sant Jordi.
- Funicular: From Espanya metro station, take the Montjuïc Funicular, which connects to the hill. From the funicular station, it is a short walk or bus ride to the palace.
- Walking: For those who prefer to walk, it is about a 25-minute uphill walk through Montjuïc Park, a scenic route with gardens and views.
- Taxi or Ride-share: Easily available from Plaça Espanya and will take about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic.
Sant Jordi Palace Summary
Sant Jordi Palace, a landmark of Barcelona’s Olympic legacy, combines innovative architecture with versatile event hosting. Designed by Arata Isozaki and opened in 1990, it remains a cultural and sporting hub. Visitors admire its design, location, and dynamic atmosphere. Easily accessible from Plaça Espanya by metro, bus, funicular, or on foot, it is a must-see for those exploring Barcelona’s modern architectural gems.
Sant Jordi Palace Business Partners
Outdoor Activities: Canyoning, Via Ferratas, Coasteering, Hiking, Orientation, Training, Team Building and Schools
