What Is the Oldest Bar in Barcelona?

By Robert Palmer

Barcelona is a city that is well-known for its rich history and culture. From its stunning architecture to its buzzing nightlife, there’s always something new to discover in this beautiful city.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Barcelona’s culture is its bar scene. In fact, Barcelona has a long-standing tradition of bars and taverns that dates back centuries.

If you’re interested in exploring the city’s bar scene, one of the best places to start is by visiting some of the oldest bars in Barcelona. These establishments are not only steeped in history but also offer a unique glimpse into the city’s past.

So, what is the oldest bar in Barcelona? Let’s find out!

The answer to this question depends on how you define “oldest.” There are several bars in Barcelona that claim to be the oldest, each with its own unique story and history. However, one bar stands out above all the others: Els Quatre Gats.

Els Quatre Gats (which translates to “The Four Cats” in English) was founded in 1897 by artist Pere Romeu. This iconic establishment quickly became a hub for artists and intellectuals at the turn of the century, including Pablo Picasso and Antoni Gaudí.

Walking into Els Quatre Gats today feels like stepping back in time. The interior has been carefully preserved to reflect its original design, complete with stained glass windows and ornate decorations. The walls are adorned with artwork from some of Catalonia’s most famous artists, including Ramon Casas and Santiago Rusiñol.

One of the most interesting things about Els Quatre Gats is that it wasn’t just a bar – it was also a cultural center. The establishment hosted concerts, poetry readings, and art exhibitions throughout its early years. In fact, it was at Els Quatre Gats where Picasso held his first solo exhibition in 1900.

While Els Quatre Gats is undoubtedly the oldest bar in Barcelona, it’s not the only historic establishment worth visiting. Other notable bars include La Cova Fumada, which has been serving up traditional Catalan cuisine since 1944, and Bar Marsella, which opened its doors in 1820 and was a favorite haunt of famous artists such as Ernest Hemingway and Salvador Dalí.

In conclusion, if you’re looking to explore Barcelona’s rich history and culture through its bars and taverns, Els Quatre Gats is a must-visit destination. Not only is it the city’s oldest bar, but it’s also an important cultural landmark that played a significant role in the development of modern art in Catalonia. So next time you’re in Barcelona, be sure to stop by Els Quatre Gats for a taste of history and culture!