Hivernacle

Hivernacle is a historic cast-iron and glass greenhouse standing in Parc de la Ciutadella in Barcelona, one of the park's most distinctive structures alongside the nearby Umbracle. It was built between 1883 and 1887 to a design by architect Josep Amargós i Samaranch, and its completion coincided with the 1888 Universal Exposition, for which the building served a representative role.

What does Hivernacle look like?

The building is made up of three naves. The central nave is open on two sides and covered by a gabled roof, while the two side naves have full walls of iron and glass and are reached through the central section. This layout allowed free air circulation in the main hall while keeping more controlled climatic conditions in the side wings, where plants needing extra protection were kept. The decoration is restrained and draws on cast-iron motifs with a Hellenistic lineage — palmettes and lobed ornamental shapes appear on the facades and roof finials. Built from cast iron and glass, Hivernacle stands as one of the more significant surviving examples of 19th-century industrial architecture in Barcelona.

What is the history of this place?

During the 1888 Universal Exposition, Hivernacle functioned as a banquet and conference hall, and for a period afterward it operated as a restaurant. In 1893, the Barcelona Publicists' Association asked the City Council to hand the building over to them as their headquarters and a venue for classes. In 1965 the structure underwent restoration together with the neighbouring Umbracle, but by the 1970s it had fallen into disuse again. A further restoration took place in 1983, when the building remained open to the public despite its worn condition.

What can visitors find in Hivernacle today?

Following extensive conservation work, Hivernacle reopened in December 2023, recovering an appearance close to its original state from the time of the Universal Exposition. The restoration revealed that the decorative scheme had been designed by Alexandre de Riquer i Ynglada, one of the leading figures of Catalan Art Nouveau. The building now houses a collection of more than a hundred plant species of botanical and agricultural interest, and it serves an educational role, introducing visitors to topics of biodiversity and gardening.

Where is Hivernacle located?

The building sits within Parc de la Ciutadella in Barcelona, one of the city's most important central parks, right next to the Umbracle, a sister structure from the same period.

Frequently asked questions

When was Hivernacle built? Construction took place between 1883 and 1887, and the building was completed in time for the 1888 Universal Exposition.

Who designed Hivernacle? The architectural design was by Josep Amargós i Samaranch, while the interior decoration was created by Alexandre de Riquer i Ynglada.

What is Hivernacle made of? Its structure relies on cast iron and glass, materials typical of 19th-century industrial and exhibition architecture.

Can Hivernacle be visited today? Yes, since its restoration was completed in December 2023 the building has been open to the public and displays a plant collection.

How does Hivernacle differ from the nearby Umbracle? Both buildings date from the same period and were restored together in 1965, but Hivernacle is distinguished by its three-nave layout dominated by iron and glass, whereas the Umbracle is a separate structure with a different architectural character.