The Palau del Marquès d’Alfarràs, which until now has been welcoming visitors to the Parc del Laberint d’Horta with its doors closed, is ‘now open to the public following’ renovation works spanning more than two years that have served to restore a space that had ‘ deteriorated over the years.
The Barcelona Municipal Institute of Parks and Gardens has gone to great lengths to renovate the entire structure and restore original features that tell us something of what this spectacular building was like during various eras of splendour. Also, the entire façade has been restored to the way it looked following its last reform in the late 19th century.
However, the history of this building dates back to the 11th century when the watchtower that stands at the centre of the estate was built. This tower is the central element around which the various rooms of the palace were built. At different points in its history, the building has been extended and gardens added.
As of now, the Palau del Marquès d’Alfarràs is open to members of the public who can take part in free guided tours on Wednesdays and Sundays until the end of the year. The tours take place at 10.30 am and 12.30 pm, and prior booking is required.
The left wing of the building was restored some twenty years ago and to this day continues to house the El Laberint Training Centre.
In 1968, the palace and the gardens of the Parc del Laberint d’Horta came under municipal ownership, thereby achieving the City Council’s aim to incorporate it into the network of public parks.
The Parc del Laberint d’Horta is composed of spaces from different eras and styles, covering more than ten hectares and arranged across three terraced levels. On the lower terrace is the cypress maze, which is currently being restored. The park receives some 250,000 visitors a year.
