Latest News

On the list of must-see museums in Barcelona, the Museu Marítim is a standout. It’s a space dedicated to sea-related Catalan history, so it’s sure to be a fascinating visit, especially if you have an interest in the topic. But even if you don’t think of maritime interest as an interest of yours, be assured that this museum will surprise you. Plus, its convenient location just a few minutes’ walk from our guesthouse on Parallel will convince you that it’s worth your time. Set aside a morning or afternoon to visit the Museu Marítim de Barcelona!

The building: Las Reales Atarazanas

The first thing you’ll notice is the building. It is located in Las Reales Atarazanas (the royal shipyards), which is over 700 years old. It was built in the 13^th century for the construction and maintenance of galleys. At that time the building was open to the sea so that ships could come and go easily.

In the 18th century, the royal shipyard stopped building ships and was devoted to other, non-military uses. It became a prison, a barracks, and even a cannon factory.  

On the point of being destroyed, the royal shipyards were saved thanks to an ambitious plan: converting them into the location of the Museu Marítim de Barcelona.

The Museum

The Museu Marítim de Barcelona opened its doors is 1941, and since then has been dedicated to teaching about Catalonia’s maritime history through exhibits of photographs, maps, navigational charts and instruments, sculptures, and ships. The museum originally covered 4,000 m², but has now grown to 10,000 m².

The Ships

One of the most interesting parts of the museum is the section devoted to the fleet. The museum has a fascinating collection of historical vessels that are accessible to the public. The ships are in the water, so visitors have to go outside to see these boats anchored in the Mediterranean.

Among these impressive vessels is the packet boat Santa Eulàlia, unequivocally the most iconic boat at the museum. There is also the merchant ship Faro Barcelona, which dates back to 1847, and the pleasure yacht Faro Barceloneta, built in 1915.

The Museu Marítim de Barcelona is open Monday through Sunday from 10:00 to 20:00. After 15:00 on Sundays entry is free. Otherwise, entry costs 10 Euros.

Enjoy your visit in this unique museum during your stay at our boutique hotel in Poble Sec.