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Montjuïc gets a new look as several Fira pavilions are demolished
The redevelopment of the Fira de Montjuïc has entered one of its most visible phases with the start of demolition work on several pavilions. Over the coming years, the works will change the landscape of Avinguda de la Reina Maria Cristina and prepare the site to open new spaces in 2029.
Machines are already at work demolishing pavilion 4 and the current Palau de Congressos, where a new multifunctional building for major events will be built. The work is part of a large-scale refurbishment intended to modernise facilities closely tied to Barcelona’s trade-fair history.
At the same time, asbestos removal continues at Palau Alfons XIII and the roof of Palau del Vestit is being dismantled. The aim is for these three buildings to be completely renovated by 2029, coinciding with the centenary of the International Exhibition that transformed Montjuïc.
One of the most striking images of the work is the installation of a crane with a 60-metre jib. Demolition is progressing towards Reina Maria Cristina Avenue to reduce disruption to the surrounding area and better organise the movement of heavy machinery.
The future multifunctional hall will have two independent exhibition floors and entrances from the new carrer de l’Univers and from Maria Cristina. The layout will make it possible to host activities in different formats at the same time and increase the site’s capacity for trade fairs and congresses.
The new Palau de Congressos will occupy the space of the current Palau Alfons XIII. The project includes an auditorium for more than 2,000 people, a garden of almost 7,000 square metres and a direct connection from Carles Buïgas Square, near the future entrance to the expanded MNAC.
Palau del Vestit will become a space linked to innovation and trade-fair activity. The first phase of the works represents an investment of close to 250 million euros and also paves the way for the construction of 548 protected homes within the area.
From 2030, a second stage focused on Palau de les Comunicacions and Palau de la Metal·lúrgia will begin. The full schedule extends through to 2035, so the transformation will coexist with Montjuïc’s usual activity for years.
The work already presents a different scene at one of the city’s most recognisable entrances. Between cranes, empty pavilions and demolitions, Barcelona is beginning to redraw a site that wants to remain urban while still competing for major international congresses.