Museu de Cera de Barcelona

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The building was constructed in 1867 specifically for the Credit and Discount Bank of Barcelona.

2. 2

   The museum's interior features a notable grand staircase and a marble-clad hall reflecting its original function as a banking institution.

3. 3

   Some of the wax figures are crafted with human hair and glass eyes to enhance their realism.

4. 4

   The 'Forest of the Fairies' (Bosc de les Fades) is a café within the museum complex designed as an enchanted forest environment.

5. 5

   The 2020 renovation replaced older, deteriorating figures with modernized versions using contemporary materials and precise facial modeling.

Overview

The Museu de Cera de Barcelona is housed within a restored 19th-century neoclassical building that formerly served as the headquarters of the Bank of Barcelona. The museum features over 150 wax figures representing historical, cultural, and fictional personalities across various themed sets. It underwent a major renovation in 2020 that modernized the scenography with interactive technology and updated character representations. The collection is organized into thematic rooms, ranging from the Hall of Fame to the Passatge del Terror. Visitors move through a sequence of distinct environments, including the 'Forest of the Fairies' and the 'Galactic Room.' The museum is located in the historic Ciutat Vella district, positioned near the bottom of La Rambla. It is currently fully operational and welcomes visitors throughout the year.

Insider tips

• Download the official app before entering to access augmented reality features that provide context for the exhibits.

• Visit the attached 'Bosc de les Fades' café after the tour for a thematic experience in a foliage-filled space.

• Check the official website for rotating temporary exhibitions that may focus on specific pop-culture themes.