A few weeks ago, the program Batalla Monumental, on TV3, forced viewers to choose between the Sant Pau Modernist Complex and La Pedrera as the best exponent of modernism in Barcelona. The old hospital, designed by architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, won by a large majority, as it surpassed the building designed by Antoni Gaudí by receiving 79% of the audience's votes.
As a result of this experience, the foundations that own these two architectural treasures have decided to join forces to offer a new combined visit starting this Easter at a very special price. The modernist experience can be enjoyed for 20 euros (6 euros for children under 12) and aims to "offer a new cultural proposal" to citizens and encourage families to "participate in local, cultural, and leisure activities." "With this combined visit, the intention is that Catalans do not have to choose and can get to know in depth two monuments that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites," they explain.
La Pedrera, the name by which Casa Milà is known, belongs to the Fundació Catalunya La Pedrera, heir to the foundation of the former Caixa Catalunya. All income generated by visits to this iconic work by Gaudí is allocated to the maintenance of the building and also to finance the social activities carried out by the entity chaired by publicist Germán Ramón-Cortés, which annually benefit more than 500,000 people.
In parallel, the Sant Pau Modernist Complex is the masterpiece of Domènech i Montaner and served as a hospital for a century, and now houses the headquarters of different institutions, in addition to being a regular venue for all kinds of events. The complex, which never leaves visitors indifferent who come for the first time, is owned by the Fundació Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau. The profits generated by this tourist activity contribute to financing the care and research activities of the current hospital and also social action projects.
Tickets are purchased on La Pedrera's website, and after visiting this building, they must be kept and presented at the Sant Pau ticket offices.