Demolition Underway for Major Montjuïc Overhaul

Demolition work on the Palau de Congressos at Fira de Barcelona’s Montjuïc exhibition centre has officially started, marking the beginning of a large-scale urban transformation. A 200-tonne crane with a 60-metre reach is being used to dismantle the structure, along with Palau 4, to clear space for a new multifunctional palace set to open in 2029. The redevelopment is timed to coincide with the centenary of the 1929 International Exposition. The new Palau Multifuncional, designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Smiljan Radić alongside Miquel Mariné Núñez, Beatriz Borque, and César Rueda Bonet, will span 20,500 square metres across two floors. It will feature a lightweight metal structure to maximise transparency and integration with the surrounding cityscape.

2.8 Billion Euro Plan to Transform Montjuïc

This phase is part of a wider 2.8 billion euro transformation of the Montjuïc trade fair grounds, scheduled for completion by 2035. The project covers 270,013 square metres and includes traffic calming around Plaça d’Espanya and improved pedestrian access. The first phase also involves removing fibre-cement roofing from the Palau Alfons XIII and the former Palau del Vestit. The new multifunctional palace will connect to the renovated Palau de Comunicacions, which will host up to 1,500 people. The Palau del Vestit will be converted into a business and innovation hub designed by Bjarke Ingels Group and MIAS Arquitectura, preserving the historic colonnade and façade by Josep Maria Jujol. That project represents a €40 million investment, while the new pavilion and Palau Alfons XIII refurbishment together amount to €250 million.

Future Phases and Continued Operations

Once the first phase concludes in 2029, work will begin on renovating the Palau de les Comunicacions (Palau 1) and the Palau de la Metal·lúrgia (Palau 8). Throughout the redevelopment, trade fair activities at Montjuïc will continue without interruption. The project has received €142 million in funding from the European Investment Bank. Fira de Barcelona’s Montjuïc renovation page outlines the full vision, including sustainability goals and architectural integration. The Barcelona City Council also confirms that public green spaces and community facilities will be incorporated into the redesign, enhancing access for residents of Font de la Guatlla and Hostafrancs.

Sources: El Periódico, Ajuntament de Barcelona, firabarcelona.com.