Plaça Almoina

Here stands a building that once served 288 people a hot meal every single day, making it one of medieval Europe's largest charitable institutions. Beside the Cathedral in the Gothic Quarter, Plaça Almoina takes its name from the Casa de la Pia Almoina, the House of Charity. 

The word almoina means alms in Catalan. Bishop Aeci founded this institution in 1009 with a simple mission: feed the poor. It started by providing daily meals to 100 people, but the need grew rapidly over the centuries. The current building was constructed around 1423, replacing an earlier residence of Augustinian canons that had stood here since the 4th century. What makes this structure remarkable is its foundation: it sits directly on the remains of a tower from the ancient Roman wall that once protected the city. 

You can still see parts of these Roman stones integrated into the medieval architecture. By the 15th century, the institution had expanded far beyond its original purpose. Beyond feeding nearly 300 people daily, it provided support to students and cared for the sick. The charitable work continued for over 800 years until the 19th century, when government confiscations of church property forced it to close. The building now houses the Diocesan Museum, preserving centuries of religious art and history.