The Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona, or CCCB for short, is contemporary arts centre in Barcelona’s Raval neighbourhood. The centre opened in 1995 in a historic building which was once an almshouse and houses three main exhibition areas, as well as an auditorium, a bookstore, an arts cinema and a digital archive, all of which are open to the public.
The CCCB sets itself apart from Barcelona’s other contemporary art museums by not having a permanent collection. Instead, it displays a variety of temporary exhibitions that all share the common, underlying theme of cities and urban life. Each exhibition typically runs for six months, and there are usually two exhibitions being shown at any one time, although this may vary.
Another thing which makes the CCCB unique is that, in addition to the exhibitions, the centre also hosts a range of other activities, including concerts, film festivals, poetry readings, art workshops and debates relating to current and upcoming exhibitions.
Generally speaking, I’ve found that the exhibitions at the CCCB tend to be more relatable and less high-brow than some of the more Avante-guard and esoteric art, which is often on display at the MACBA. Having said that, it’s still worth checking what’s on before you visit.
Every year, the CCCB hosts the World Press Photo Exhibition, which usually happens in November and December and is one of the centre’s most popular events. The exhibition features award-winning photos from the previous year and is typically accompanied by various related activities such as guided tours and debates.
Visiting the CCCB
Here is some practical information to assist you in planning your visit to the CCCB museum in Barcelona.
Time needed to visit the CCCB
I recommend you allow between forty-five minutes and one hour to visit the CCCB. The time needed will vary depending on whether there are one or two exhibitions on display when you visit.
Information in English?
Yes, there is information about the exhibits in English, Catalan and Spanish.
Location & how to get to the CCCB
The CCCB is located in the Raval neighbourhood, near the MACBA museum and the Boqueria market.
Address: Carrer de Montalegre, 5, Barcelona
The nearest metro stops are Universitat, on lines L1 & L2, Pl. Catalunya on metro lines L1 & L3 and Liceu, on the L3 metro line.
Opening Times
Tuesday to Sunday and public holidays: 11:00 – 20:00
Monday (except public holidays): CLOSED
The museum remains closed on January 1st and December 25th, and entrance times may vary due to public holidays etc.
Tickets
| Ticket type | Price |
| Adult, one exhibition | €6 |
| Adult, two exhibitions | €8 |
| Reduced, one exhibition | €4 |
| Reduced, two exhibitions | €6 |
| Reduced two exhibitions | Free |
Articket (Barcelona Museum Pass)
If you plan on visiting three or more of the museums listed below, it will generally work out cheaper if you purchase the Articket, which includes skip-the-line entrance to all six museums for just €38.
- Barcelona Contemporary Art Museum (MACBA)
- The National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC)
- Picasso Museum
- Joan Miró Foundation
- Antoni Tàpies Foundation
- Barcelona Centre for Contemporary Culture (CCCB)
Barcelona Card
The CCCB is also included in the Barcelona Card, which gives free access to twenty-five of the city’s best museums, unlimited journeys on public transport and discounts at many other attractions and activities.
Free entry days
The CCCB can be visited free of charge after three pm every Sunday (prior reservation needed).
You can also visit free of charge on the following days: May 13th & 18th and September 24th.
Other attractions nearby
- The MACBA museum
- Keith Haring’s mural
- The Boqueria food market
- La Rambla
- El Liceu Opera House
Map
Carrer de Montalegre, 5, Barcelona
