Picture this a former textile factory reborn. This is Can Framis. It stands before you a testament to Barcelona’s rich history. Can Framis wasn’t always a museum. It began life in the 18th century as a textile mill owned by the Framis family. For years it lay dormant a relic of Barcelona’s industrial past. Then in 2009 the Fundació Vila Casas breathed new life into the old building. They transformed it into a museum of contemporary Catalan painting.
Can Framis now houses over 250 paintings. The collection showcases works from the 1960s to the present day. The artists are all born in or currently living in Catalonia. Each piece is carefully selected by Antoni Vila Casas a prominent private collector. The museum’s layout is captivating. The permanent collection changes periodically. This ensures a fresh experience for visitors. The museum even has temporary exhibitions that rotate every three months. These exhibitions are held in a space called Espai A0.
But the magic of Can Framis extends beyond its art. The building itself is a masterpiece of architectural restoration. Architect Jordi Badia meticulously renovated the factory. He even constructed a new building to connect the existing structures. The result is a stunning fusion of old and new. The exterior is a beautiful collage of textures. This includes lime mortar exposed concrete and original stonework. The ivy and other plants climbing the facade add to the charm. Inside three floors of exhibition space await. Each floor has its own elevator. This provides easy navigation for visitors. Did you know the museum is 15 metres below street level? This is because the original factory was built based on older agricultural plans. The road was raised later when the Cerdà Plan was implemented.
The courtyard boasts a striking sculpture. It’s named Dell’Arte and is by Jaume Plensa. It was a gift to the city of Barcelona from the Vila Casas Foundation. Can Framis is more than a museum it’s an experience. It’s a journey through time and art set in the heart of Barcelona. The building’s history speaks of hard work and industry. The art collection celebrates Catalan talent. The architectural design perfectly blends the past and the present. Can Framis is an unmissable destination for any visitor to Barcelona. A place where history meets art and the past meets the future.