Mies van der Rohe Pavillion, Barcelona: All year

Originally constructed in 1928 to represent “the clarity, simplicity and honesty” of Germany at that time in the Barcelona International Exposition of 1929. It was designed by the architects Mies van der Rohe and Lilly Reich and clearly embodies these principles.

They created a modern, open and fluid space on an open floor plan which allows you to transfer seamlessly from inside to outside. Built from green marble, onyx, travertine, steel and large panes of glass, the building dilutes and blurs the distinction between interior and exterior, thus increasing an affinity with nature and the immediate surroundings. Two expanses of water complete a space of reflective surfaces.

Masterfully placed in a far corner of the small pond is a bronze reproduction of the sculpture Der Morgen (The Dawn) by Georg Kolbe. The feminine curves are augmented and reflected not only in the water but also in the marble and glass, creating the impression that it is multiplied infinitely and contrasting with the clean, straight lines of the building.

Once the exhibition was over in 1930, the building was disassembled as had been planned. The present Pavillion is a true reproduction that was erected in 1986 in the original location in Montjuïc to celebrate what would have been the architect’s 100th birthday. The space is now home to the Mies van der Rohe Foundation which aims to project the architect’s innovative spirit into future and to promote architectural research through organising conferences, exhibitions and publications.

Mies van der Rohe Pavillion of Barcelona

Av. de Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 7, 08038 Barcelona

Opening hours

Summer (1 March- 31 October): 10.00-20.00

Winter (1 November-28 February): 10.00-18.00