Exponent of iron architecture

Officially opened in 1929 for the Barcelona International Exposition, Estació de França is an outstanding monumental building on Avinguda del Marquès de l’Argentera, in the Born neighbourhood.  Designed by the engineer Andreu Muntaner and the architect Pedro Muguruza, the building was a joint creation and features a dual metal canopy with windows that allows a dramatic play of natural light on the 12 tracks that make it up. It is one of the most important examples of Modernista iron architecture in Barcelona.

Another beautiful feature is the Noucentista foyer with three enormous domes, designed by the architect Duran i Reynals, to extend the building. The presence of high quality materials such as marble and bronze, both in the noble foyer and the rest of the station, enhance the spectacular appearance and distinction of the station, which is often compared to Orsay Station in Paris.

A versatile space

After some thorough remodelling, the station reopened in 1992, to mark with the Barcelona Olympic Games. The station was previously known as Barcelona-Término; long-distance trains took a back seat when it became exclusively dedicated to middle-distance journeys. Recent years have seen a rise in the station’s  cultural importance. It now plays host to events such as the Comics Fair, concerts, exhibitions and even trade fairs and markets, such as the Lost & Found second-hand market.