In the coming years, the Palau de Pedralbes in Barcelona is set for major changes. The Catalan government has announced the launch of a comprehensive renovation of this historic landmark, which has long needed updates due to numerous structural issues, humidity problems, and barriers for people with limited mobility.
The project is planned through 2030, with a total budget of €28 million. This year, a competition for architectural proposals will be launched, with the winner to be selected in the spring of next year. Construction preparations will follow, and the main works are scheduled to begin in 2028.
The palace, granted by the city of Barcelona to the Catalan government back in 1922, now serves not only as a representative venue but also as a host for major international meetings. It houses the office of the president of the autonomous community and is the headquarters of the Unió per la Mediterrània.
Renovation will be carried out in stages so that the building can remain partially in use even during construction. Special attention will be given to repairing both interior and exterior damage caused by time and humidity. The roof will be the first to be restored, followed by the basement, with the final phase focusing on the facades.
What will change inside the palace
Each of the palace’s four main floors has an area of about 3,500 square meters, while the attic is 400 square meters. After the renovation, the basement will house technical services, the ground floor will accommodate rooms for official events, a kitchen, and a chapel. The second floor will serve as a representative area with the prime minister’s office. The third floor will be used for offices and facilities of the Union for the Mediterranean, and the top floor will be set aside for guest suites.
The main ceremonial hall is expected to be completed by 2029, with the entire renovation finished by 2030. The work will affect only the private areas of the palace gardens, while the rest of the grounds will remain open to visitors.
Additional investment in infrastructure
In addition to the main renovation, authorities have allocated nearly 2.9 million euros to refurbish two pavilions in the Pedralbes gardens. This funding comes from the Ministry of External Relations and will cover half the cost of restoring pavilions No. 3 and No. 4.
As a result of these changes, the Pedralbes Palace is set to become not only a modern and secure residence for the government, but also an important cultural center for Barcelona. The renovated building is expected to host international meetings and official events, becoming another architectural gem of the city.
