Casa de la Caritat de Barcelona, Social welfare complex in El Raval, Spain
Casa de la Caritat de Barcelona is a large complex in El Raval with multiple courtyards arranged across two hectares of land. The main feature is the Manning Courtyard with Tuscan columns and baroque decorative elements, while the site now houses the Contemporary Culture Center and the Cultural Studies and Resources Center of the Provincial Council.
The complex was founded in 1803 by royal decree under Charles IV and previously served as a monastery before becoming a seminary. Its transformation into a charitable institution marked a major shift in its social purpose.
The Manning Courtyard becomes a stage for the Giants of Barcelona Districts exhibition during the La Merce Festival celebrations, where traditional Catalan folk figures are displayed. Visitors witness here the ongoing practice of a tradition that has connected communities for generations.
The complex now hosts art exhibitions and cultural events that are open to visitors. The courtyards are easy to navigate when visiting and offer rest areas between different sections.
The institution funded itself through a funeral services concession, which allowed it to remain financially independent. This unusual funding source also supported craft workshops that taught residents occupational skills.
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