CaixaForum Girona, Girona

Nestled in the heart of Girona’s historic quarter, CaixaForum Girona offers a compelling blend of medieval architecture and contemporary culture. This cultural center is housed in the venerable La Fontana d’Or-a 13th-century palace once belonging to the noble Sitjar family, built atop a site that housed a mill dating back to 1078. Architectural highlights such as the ground-floor portico, inner courtyard, and distinctive triforium windows have been carefully preserved.

The building itself has a rich and layered history. After a devastating fire in the 15th century, it was reconstructed with limited means. It later became an inn in the 18th century, operating under the name “La Fontana d’Or” during the era when Girona was a key stop for stagecoaches traveling between Barcelona and France. The site continued to host various civic and cultural institutions through the centuries, before undergoing historicist restoration under architect Joan Maria de Ribot i de Balle in the late 20th century, reopening in 1973 as a cultural venue.

In its current incarnation, CaixaForum Girona officially opened in the spring of 2011 as part of a network of CaixaForum centers across Spain, following the absorption of Caixa Girona into “la Caixa”. With roughly 400 square meters of exhibition space located on the ground floor and basement, it showcases a rotating program of temporary exhibitions-from ancient civilizations to modern art, photography, and contemporary plastic arts. A special series titled “Acceso directo” features micro‑exhibitions drawn from the Caixa contemporary art collection.

Visitors will also find versatile facilities and engaging programming. The center includes an auditorium seating 108 guests and a flexible “Espacio 1” that accommodates up to 80 people-ideal for film screenings, lectures, and concerts. Additionally, two classrooms (each holding 30 participants, with one that can be divided) support educational workshops and cultural activities for all ages.