Can Masachs

Can Masachs is a historic building in the heart of Ripollet, a small town in the Vallès Occidental county, just a short distance from Barcelona. Originally built as a private residence in the Catalan Modernisme style, it now serves as the town's city hall (Ajuntament de Ripollet) and stands as one of the most recognizable landmarks in the town centre.

How do you get there?

Can Masachs sits on Carrer de Balmes 2, right in the centre of Ripollet, so it's easy to find — just head to the main square. Ripollet is part of the greater Barcelona metropolitan area and is well connected by regional trains (lines S and R) and buses, with the journey from central Barcelona typically taking 30–40 minutes. Drivers benefit from the nearby C-58 motorway, which links Barcelona with Terrassa and Sabadell.

What will you see?

The building dates back to 1920 and is a fine example of the Modernisme architecture that flourished in Catalonia's industrial towns at the turn of the 20th century. Its façade, proportions and decorative details set it apart from typical civic buildings — Can Masachs still carries the character of a grand private residence, even after decades of serving as the seat of local government.

Because of its architectural and historical value, the building has been listed as an Asset of Local Cultural Interest (Bé Cultural d'Interès Local) in Catalonia's heritage inventory, under reference IPA-27595. This official protection safeguards the building from uncontrolled alterations and underscores its place in the town's identity.

Inside the courtyard, visitors will find a cultural space named Espai Maria Aurèlia Capmany, honouring the Catalan writer and social activist. The courtyard is decorated with a mural that adds an artistic touch to the building, and it's a popular spot for photos among people visiting the town hall on official business or simply passing through the centre.

If you're exploring Ripollet, it's worth pairing a stop at Can Masachs with a walk through the surrounding streets of the town centre — the building makes a natural starting point for discovering more of this small but historically rich town, whose growth was closely tied to the region's textile industry.

When should you visit?

Since Can Masachs is a working administrative building, its interior (beyond the courtyard) is generally only accessible during office hours, Monday to Friday. The courtyard and façade, however, can be admired at any time, and late afternoon light is particularly good for photographing the Modernisme details. Try to time your visit with one of Ripollet's local festivals or cultural events, as the town regularly hosts outdoor gatherings near the centre.

Frequently asked questions

What is Can Masachs? It's a historic building from 1920, built in the Catalan Modernisme style, that now houses Ripollet's town hall.

Is Can Masachs a protected heritage site? Yes — it's listed in Catalonia's architectural heritage inventory as an Asset of Local Cultural Interest (BCIL), reference IPA-27595.

What's worth seeing inside the building? Besides the Modernisme façade, the inner courtyard hosts a cultural space called Espai Maria Aurèlia Capmany, decorated with a mural.

How do you get to Can Masachs from Barcelona? The easiest way is by regional train (lines S or R) or bus — the trip takes about 30–40 minutes, and the building stands right in the centre of Ripollet, close to the station.