The renovation of the Hivernacle is due to take a year and firstly involves work to repair structural issues affecting the higher central section and the two wings, the Picasso and Magnòlies sections. The heritage building will then be renovated.

Listed as an asset of national cultural interest, the Hivernacle is the work of Josep Amargós i Samaranch. It was built for the Universal Expo of 1888, although the project was developed by the architect Josep Fontserè i Mestre as part of a museum and science programme in the Parc de la Ciutadella, also made up of the Umbracle and the Museu Martorell. This project comes in addition to the renovation of two iconic spaces in the park, the Plaça de Prim, completed nearly three years ago, and the current renovation project currently in its final stage in Plaça d’Armes.

Regaining historical and architectural value

As for the revamp to the Palau del Marquès d’Alfarràs, this will be carried out in different stages in 2022 and 2023. The first stage, to be carried out this year, prioritises the consolidation of the structure and construction systems for the building. Work will initially focus on the structure, which is in very poor repair, ensuring damp and waterproofing and the protection of heritage elements. After that, the building’s façades and sills will be renovated, keeping their most outstanding characteristics with particular heritage value, and the building conditioned with basic installations (power, guttering and drainage, lightning conductors) so it can then be used.

The Palau del Marquès d’Alfarràs is also listed as an asset of national cultural interest. The last major work project there, carried out between 1983 and 1987, was the renovation of the building’s right wing. This has housed the El Laberint Training Centre since 1993, offering workshops and courses in gardening, agriculture and biodiversity.