Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona commemorates the Gaudí year | News
In 2026, Barcelona will commemorate the centenary of Antoni Gaudí’s death with an extraordinary cultural program to coincide with the city’s designation as World Capital of Architecture. From its privileged location on Passeig de Gràcia, Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona introduces a curated portfolio of guest experiences that connect travelers with the architect’s creative legacy. Ideally located on this iconic boulevard, the hotel places guests within walking distance of the city’s most emblematic architectural sights, making it easy for them to encounter Gaudí’s masterpieces.
The Year of Gaudí marks one hundred years since the death of Catalonia’s most iconic architect and brings a citywide agenda of exhibitions, concerts, special openings, tours and major architectural milestones – including the completion of the Tower of Jesus Christ at the Sagrada Família, which is expected to be inaugurated and blessed during a planned visit by Pope Leo XIV on June 9 and 10, 2026; this would be the third papal visit in the history of the basilica, after Pope John Paul II in 1982 and Pope Benedict XVI in 2010.
Located just steps from Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona is ideally positioned to serve as a gateway to the city’s modernist masterpieces. Throughout 2026, the hotel will offer tailor-made itineraries, exclusive cultural experiences and in-depth access designed to reveal both the celebrated icons and lesser-known wonders of Gaudí’s visionary world.
Guests are invited to explore Barcelona through Walking with Gaudí, a journey designed for travelers seeking depth and beauty. The experience combines the sophistication of a luxury stay with cultural discoveries, including accommodation in one of the hotel’s rooms or suites, a daily breakfast served at Blanc or in the privacy of the room, and themed in-room amenities inspired by Gaudí’s artistic language. Open date tickets to La Pedrera allow guests to explore at their own pace, while the concierge team provides tailor-made recommendations upon request and access to further Gaudí-related experiences.
“2026 marks a unique moment for the city,” says Jean Philippe Moser, general manager. “At Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona we are honored to join this historic celebration by offering experiences that immerse our guests in the artistic legacy, cultural stories and architectural splendor that define Gaudí’s genius.”
To deepen their discovery of the city, guests can also enjoy Unveiling the Sacred Wonders, a private guided full-day excursion that offers an intimate encounter with the artistic, architectural and cultural essence of Barcelona. Designed for those seeking insight and connection, this trip offers privileged access to Gaudí’s sights – from the Sagrada Família to Casa Batlló – as well as immersive explorations of the Gothic Quarter, El Born and several renowned museums, creating a seamless and informed journey through Barcelona’s heritage.
Subtle culinary and design-oriented accents complement this cultural immersion. During the afternoons, guests at Blanc can enjoy “Rajola de Gaudí”, a dessert inspired by the city’s modernist ceramic tiles, made of mousse de requesón, fig gelée and a María cookie and chocolate milk crisp. Within the hotel’s suites, a specially created amenity pays tribute to Gaudí’s mastery of form: a local cheesecake hidden beneath a handcrafted ceramic dome inspired by Casa Batlló, accompanied by architectural accents that highlight both the monument and the hotel’s own design heritage. Guests can also discover a separate chocolate attraction that recreates one of Casa Batlló’s iconic roof domes: a playful, edible interpretation of Gaudí’s famous curves.
Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona is located in the heart of Passeig de Gràcia, just a stone’s throw from Gaudí’s most celebrated works, making it the ideal base for guests wanting to experience the city’s vibrant centenary events.
As Barcelona becomes a living stage for architectural dialogue and cultural celebrations, Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona invites guests to experience the city through its unique lens – where legendary service, contemporary design and the true essence of the destination come together to reveal Barcelona in its most exceptional light.
