Catalan mythical creatures take over Barcelona's libraries until 2027

Barcelona revives its least-known mythology with a travelling exhibition. Illustrations of legendary beings will tour seven libraries until February 2027. A unique opportunity to discover Catalan folklore as a family.

Barcelona becomes a setting for legends and fantastic beings with a free exhibition inviting visitors to rediscover Catalan mythology. Over the coming months, seven libraries in the city will host illustrations of creatures that have inhabited the popular imagination, often eclipsed by myths from other cultures.

The exhibition, entitled «Catalan Mythology», offers a visual journey through around fifteen legendary characters, from the unsettling Dips de Pratdip to the enigmatic Dones d’aigua de Banyoles. Laia Baldevey, curator and illustrator, has reinterpreted these figures to bring them closer to new generations and establish surprising links with current references, such as superheroes or the manga universe.

The exhibition’s itinerary began at Biblioteca Joan Miró, in Nova Esquerra de l’Eixample, where it will remain until 20 March 2026. Afterwards, the creatures will travel through Barceloneta, El Carmel, Guinardó, Les Corts, Collserola and other neighbourhoods, allowing residents throughout the city to immerse themselves in tales of magic and mystery without leaving their usual surroundings.

The proposal, which was already featured at the Festival 42 of fantastic genres, seeks to spark curiosity about Catalan cultural heritage and reclaim the richness of its stories. Each library will host the exhibition for several weeks, making it accessible to families, students and fantasy lovers.

The full touring schedule includes stops at Biblioteca Barceloneta – La Fraternitat (from 24 March to 29 April 2026), El Carmel – Juan Marsé (from 2 May to 10 July 2026), Guinardó – Mercè Rodoreda (from 15 July to 11 September 2026), Montserrat Abelló (from 15 September to 13 November 2026) and Collserola – Josep Miracle (from 13 November 2026 to 7 January 2027).

The exhibition is presented as a perfect excuse to explore Barcelona’s libraries from a different perspective and be surprised by stories which, although born in oral tradition, remain alive in the city.

Barcelona’s public libraries are not only places for reading, but genuine cultural engines in neighbourhoods. Throughout the year, they organise exhibitions, workshops and activities that bring art, history and science closer to all audiences. Their role as meeting points and drivers of social engagement is key to keeping local identity alive and encouraging civic participation in the city’s cultural life.