Headquarters of the Sants-Montjuïc District in Barcelona: Jewel of eclecticism
The building of the former Mayor's Office of Hostafrancs, built at the end of the 19th century and in an eclectic style, is today the headquarters of the Sants-Montjuïc District in Barcelona. This emblematic construction is a must-see stop for tourists who want to know the history and architectural beauty of the city.
History of the building
The history of this building dates back to the mid-19th century, when the residents of Hostafrancs requested the Barcelona City Council to construct a municipal building in which they could carry out their administrative procedures without having to travel to the Plaza de Sant Jaume. In response to this request, the Mayor's Office of Hostafrancs was inaugurated, which underwent an extension in 1885 by the renowned modernist architect Jaume Gustà i Bondia.
However, with the annexation of the old town of Sants to the city of Barcelona in 1897, the Mayor's Office building became the headquarters of the new district of Sants-Montjuïc. To adapt to the needs of this new district, expansion works were carried out between 1908 and 1915, directed by the architect Ubaldo Iranzo i Eiras. It was during this period that the impressive Noucentista stained glass windows were added to the Plenary Room.
The Plenary Room
The building stands out mainly for the architectural richness of its interior, in particular the Plenary Room. This space, decorated in a modernist style, has a mosaic floor, sculptural capitals presenting female figures, iron beams and a ceiling beautifully decorated with floral sgraffito.
However, the most impressive thing about this room are undoubtedly the Noucentista stained glass windows, made by the renowned artist Francesc Labarta i Plana in 1914. These stained glass windows show everyday scenes related to industry, commerce and agriculture, representing the activities habitual of the residents of the district at that time. The vivid colors and artistic quality of these stained glass windows make the Plenary Room a truly unique and captivating place.
If you are a lover of the architecture and history of Barcelona, you cannot miss visiting the headquarters of the Sants-Montjuïc District. This building, with its eclectic style and impressive stained glass windows, will transport you to another era and allow you to appreciate the beauty and cultural richness of the city.
In addition, the location of this headquarters, in the Sants-Montjuïc district, will provide you with the opportunity to explore other nearby tourist attractions, such as Montjuïc Park, the Magic Fountain and the Spanish Village. Don't miss the opportunity to discover everything this fascinating district has to offer during your visit to Barcelona.