Casa de la Ardiaca – Hidden Gem & Photo Spot in Barcelona

About Casa de la Ardiaca – A Hidden Gem in the Gothic Centre

The Archdeacon’s House, known as Casa de la Ardiaca or Casa de l'Ardiaca, is a Barcelona hidden gem nestled beside the Barcelona Cathedral in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. Located within the historic El Call (Jewish Quarter), it’s one of the most photogenic and peaceful corners of the Barcelona Gothic Centre.

This medieval building was originally constructed in the 12th century, incorporating the Roman city walls and adjacent to the building next to Barcelona Cathedral. In the late 15th century, Archdeacon Louis Desparland transformed it with Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Later, in the 19th century, the courtyard was redesigned in cloister style by architect Josep Garriga, reflecting classic Barcelona courtyard architecture.

In 1895, the building became the seat of the Bar Association of Barcelona and gained its most curious feature: a modernist mailbox designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner. This historic letterbox is embedded in the facade next to the entrance and features symbolic motifs — including swallows and a tortoise — representing the speed and delays of the postal system. It’s a favorite detail for architecture lovers and one of the most photographed elements of the archdeacon’s house in Barcelona.

Acquired by the city in 1919, it now houses the Barcelona City Archives. Architect Joseph Goday led its transformation, and following the Civil War bombings, the surrounding townhouses were cleared to create the open Plaça Nova. From the square, you can view a reconstructed arch of the Roman aqueduct — a symbolic nod to Roman ruins in Barcelona.

Image Gallery For Casa de la Ardiaca Archdeacons house

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Visiting Casa de la Ardiaca – A Scenic Photo Spot with Rooftop Views

Stepping into Casa de la Ardiaca reveals a serene Mediterranean courtyard with a central fountain, surrounded by lush greenery and stone arcades. This peaceful space is a favorite among photographers and travelers seeking Barcelona hidden gems and Gothic architecture.

Upstairs, a scenic roof terrace offers one of the most underrated rooftop views in Barcelona, with a direct line of sight to the Barcelona Cathedral. When I visited, the upper patio was being used for a wedding photo shoot — the bride in full dress posed against the historic stonework, creating a magical moment that captured the building’s romantic charm. It’s no surprise this spot is gaining popularity as a Barcelona wedding photo location.

The interior courtyard, upper patio, and temporary exhibition space are all free to access. While the exhibition room is currently empty, it previously featured historic playing cards. The Barcelona City Archives are accessible by appointment or online consultation, making this a great stop for those interested in Barcelona heritage buildings and historical archives.

Casa Ardiaca Homepage

Accessibility & What to Take With You

The ground floor courtyard and fountain are accessible, but the scenic roof terrace is only reachable via stairs. The building’s historic layout may pose challenges for visitors with reduced mobility.

As the surrounding Gothic Centre features uneven cobbled streets, we recommend wearing sensible shoes for comfort and stability. A compact camera or smartphone is ideal for capturing the architectural details and quiet charm of this hidden gem.

Casa de la Ardiaca Archdeacons house Summary of Prices

Train/Bus Fare Entry Ticket Additional Information Train/Bus Fare Entry Ticket Additional Information Adult Zone 1 T-casual FREE Child € 1.25 FREE Notes Mon - Fri 09h - 19:30h. Free Entry? Free Entry to the interior patio and terrace plus any temporary exhibition

Getting to Casa de la Ardiaca Archdeacons house

Address: Carrer de Santa Llúcia 1, 08002 Barcelona

Casa de la Ardiaca is located in the heart of the Barcelona Gothic Centre, approximately equidistant from Plaça Catalunya on the green (L3) metro line and Jaume I on the yellow (L4) line. Use a T-Casual or Hola Barcelona Travel Card for convenient access.