The Jewel Of Barcelona

In the most exclusive district of one of the greatest creative cities in the world, the Mandarin Oriental Barcelona exudes a precious mix of tradition and modernity

There is a sort of magic in the air in the city of Barcelona: a palpable energy born of centuries of resilience over conflict; the creativity of native sons like Salvador Dali, Joan Miró, and Pablo Picasso; the fiery spirit of its people; and the vibrant traditions of Catalonia. It can be seen and felt in almost every part of the city and, in a more refined form, at one of the jewels of Catalan hospitality: the Mandarin Oriental Barcelona.

Built along the famed Passeig de Gràcia in the heart of the city’s commercial and entertainment enclave, the Mandarin Oriental Barcelona embodies a unique blend of high style and classic luxury infused with native Catalan passion and flair.

This hotel, a beautifully restored building originally constructed in the mid-20th century as a bank, boasts 120 guestrooms and suites.

While its exterior is characteristic of the Modernist architecture en vogue in the ’50s, the stunning interiors bear the distinctive mark of contemporary Spanish architect-designer Patricia Urquiola. Given its location in one of the world’s capitals of design, Urquiola has carefully curated each space to reflect Barcelona’s dynamic aesthetic.

As one enters the hotel, an atrium ramp pulls passers-by into the main entrance hall with its splendid bird’s-eye view of the Blanc, the hotel’s downstairs restaurant and lounge.

Ambient lighting comes into full play in the restaurant, as sunlight filters in from the atrium via three strategically placed skylights. Another point of visual interest is Blanc’s well-executed hanging garden: a large metal grid filled with plants whose luxuriant foliage adds an element of outdoor freshness to the area.