Palau de la Generalitat

Around you is the story of four granite columns that traveled from ancient Troy nearly 1900 years ago, now standing guard at the entrance of one of Europe's most enduring seats of power. At the heart of the Gothic Quarter on Plaça Sant Jaume, facing the City Hall, the Palau de la Generalitat has served as the headquarters of Catalonia's government since 1400. The Generalitat was established in 1359 as a governing body representing Catalonia's three estates: nobility, clergy, and common citizens.

When the institution needed a permanent home, it purchased buildings in the former Jewish Quarter on Carrer Sant Honorat. Architect Marc Safont transformed these into a Gothic palace, creating the stunning chapel of Sant Jordi and the Gothic Gallery that still stand. In 1714, Barcelona fell to Philip V during the War of Spanish Succession. The Generalitat was abolished and the palace became the King's Court. For centuries, including through Franco's dictatorship, the institution remained suppressed. On September 29, 1977, democracy returned.

President Josep Tarradellas stepped onto the palace balcony and declared to thousands below: Catalans, I am here! The Generalitat was restored. Since then, 132 presidents have governed from this medieval building, making it one of the few in Europe still serving its original purpose after more than six centuries.