Barcelona City History Museum (MUHBA)

The Basics

The Museum of the History of Barcelona stands within Plaça del Rei atop the historic remains of an ancient Roman colony. The lowest level of the museum displays the remains of the former Roman settlement, while the upper floors showcase how the medieval city was built atop the ruins, with exhibits on Barcelona’s medieval history.

In addition to the museum at Plaça del Rei, MUHBA includes a collection of smaller museums and historical points of interest throughout the city. Visitors can choose from a standard admission ticket to the museum or opt for a multiattraction pass, which includes entry to other notable sites, such as the Picasso Museum, Miró Foundation, Museum of Contemporary Art, and CaixaForum, as well.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Barcelona City History Museum is a must-visit for history buffs.

• One admission ticket gives you access to all MUHBA exhibits and is valid for six months.

• An audio guide is available at the museum entrance.

• The museum in Plaça del Rei is wheelchair-accessible.

How to Get There

MUHBA is situated in Plaça del Rei, easily accessible on foot from just about anywhere in the old city. The nearest metro stop is Jaume I on the Green Line.

When to Get There

The museum is open daily Tuesday to Sunday. Admission is free throughout the day on the first Sunday of every month and every Sunday afternoon after 3pm.

Self-Guided Walks

MUHBA has laid out three different self-guided walks for travelers interested in learning more about particular aspects of Barcelona’s history. The Barcino walk covers the city’s Roman history as it takes visitors from Plaça del Rei around the site of the former Roman colony. A tour of Barcelona’s Jewish District (El Call) explains what life was like for the Jewish community living in the city during medieval times. The medieval-wall walk gives an account of the defensive structures built during the 13th and 14th centuries, with stops at several archaeological remains.