Casa de l’Ardiaca

The Casa de l'Ardiaca, a hidden treasure

The Barcelona audio-guided tour has you discover, a few metres from the cathedral, the Casa de l'Ardiaca, literally the house of the archdeacon, an ecclesiastical office now vanished. Little known to the general public, this place holds a fine surprise for whoever pushes open the door.

From the archdeacon's home to the archives

Having become a municipal archive in 1921, the complex is declared a heritage of cultural interest. The entrance, free, reveals a magnificent small richly decorated patio, a haven of freshness and quiet. On leaving, take the time to observe the letterbox, to the right of the entrance: there you see a small tortoise as well as finely sculpted swallows. An original choice, said to symbolise the slowness of the postal service, which should however have been as fast as these birds.

What there is to see

The inner patio, with its fountain, its palm tree and its Gothic and Renaissance elements, is one of the most charming of the Gothic quarter. The curious sculpted letterbox is worth lingering over. It is a free, peaceful and off-the-beaten-track stop, ideal for a quiet break very close to the cathedral.

Practical information

The Casa de l'Ardiaca is a few metres from the cathedral, in the heart of the Gothic quarter of Barcelona. Access to the patio is free; the place, which houses the city archives, follows its own opening hours, generally on weekdays.

What does the Casa de l'Ardiaca house?

Since 1921 it has housed the archives of the city of Barcelona and reveals a magnificent inner patio with free access.

What does the sculpted letterbox symbolise?

Adorned with a tortoise and swallows, it is said to evoke with humour the slowness of the postal service of the time.