Llotja de Mar

Medieval commercial exchange from around 1400 in Barcelona – Gothic core behind a neoclassical facade, once the art school where Picasso studied.

The Llotja de Mar on Passeig d'Isabel II in Barcelona's La Ribera neighbourhood is one of the most significant civil Gothic buildings in the Mediterranean. Its Gothic core – the magnificent Saló de Contractacions – dates from around 1400 and served as a medieval commercial exchange for Mediterranean merchants. The exterior was remodelled in the 18th century in neoclassical style, creating a rare architectural layering of two eras. The Llotja is also notable as a former art school – Pablo Picasso studied here as a young man. The building now houses the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce.