Domènech i Montaner outdid himself as architect and philanthropist with the Modernista Hospital de la Santa Creu i de Sant Pau. Built between 1902 and 1930, it was long considered one of Barcelona’s most important hospitals, but was repurposed into cultural centres, offices and a monument in 2009. A joint Unesco World Heritage Site with the Palau de la Música Catalana, the 27-building complex is lavishly decorated (tiling, stained glass, arches) and each of its 16 pavilions unique.
Domènech i Montaner wanted to create an environment that would also cheer up patients, setting the hospital around a tranquil courtyard. The most richly adorned space is the Pavelló de l'Administració, with its lobby's domed pink-tiled ceiling and twirling staircase, and upstairs the Sala Domènech i Montaner, known for its soaring arched ceiling, fine tilework and stained-glass windows. Among artists who contributed pieces was the prolific Eusebi Arnau. Guided 90-minute tours run in a range of languages.
