Barcelona Prepares to Host the World Congress of Architects in 2026

Barcelona is gearing up to host the World Congress of Architects in 2026, marking the second time the Catalan capital has been selected for this prestigious event. According to “Ediciones EL PAÍS S.L.”, the city is the first to achieve this milestone, underscoring its prominent role in global architectural discourse (Ediciones EL PAÍS S.L., 1976). The congress aims to address the pressing sustainability challenges facing major cities in the context of climate change.

Addressing Urban Sustainability Through Architecture

The core mission of the 2026 congress, as stated by the organizing institutions, is to foster a collaborative environment where innovative architectural solutions to sustainability issues can be explored and developed. Laia Bonet, the Deputy Mayor for Urban Planning, emphasized the transformative potential of hosting the UIA Congress, viewing it as an opportunity to highlight the crucial role of architecture in shaping public policy. «This discipline is the foundation of our common life and must serve to address future social challenges,» Bonet stated, advocating for enhanced collaboration among administrative bodies to ensure the event’s success (Lamor, 2024).

Key Venues and Event Logistics

The congress, scheduled from June 28 to July 2, 2026, will primarily take place at the Disseny Hub Barcelona and Las Tres Chimeneas in Sant Adrià. The latter site is undergoing significant redevelopment as part of the Catalunya Media Hub project. According to city officials, the construction work will not interfere with the congress preparations, with both projects slated to commence in the summer of 2026 (Lamor, 2024). Other notable venues include the Moll de la Marina, the Sagrada Familia—where the UIA’s triennial awards will be presented—and the Castell de Montjuïc, which will host the closing ceremony.

Barcelona: A Global Hub for Architectural Thought

Marta Vall-llossera, President of the Consejo Superior de Colegios de Arquitectos de España (CSCAE) and the Congress, stated that the event would position Barcelona as «the global center of architectural thought,» offering a platform to «focus on the potential of architecture to improve social well-being» (Lamor, 2024). The organizers anticipate over 10,000 participants, including professionals, academics, and students from around the world, all converging to discuss the future role of architecture in promoting sustainable development.

Collaborative Organization and Financial Support

The event is a collaborative effort between the CSCAE and the Col·legi d’Arquitectes de Catalunya (COAC), with support from the Barcelona City Council, the Generalitat, and the Ministerio de Vivienda y Agenda Urbana (MIVAU). These entities are equally funding the event’s execution. Guim Costa, Dean of COAC and Director of the Congress, expressed gratitude for the «institutional support and administrative collaboration» that has driven the project forward (Lamor, 2024).

Barcelona as the World Capital of Architecture

In addition to hosting the UIA Congress, Barcelona will hold the title of World Capital of Architecture throughout 2026, awarded by UNESCO. The city secured this designation in 2021, surpassing Beijing, which will host the congress and become the capital in 2029. This title will be celebrated with a series of activities from February to November, aimed at showcasing Barcelona’s architectural significance (Lamor, 2024).

Centenary of Antoni Gaudí’s Death

Maria Buhigas, the chief architect of the Barcelona City Council, clarified that while 2026 also marks the centenary of Antoni Gaudí’s death, the commemorations will be managed primarily by the Generalitat, given Gaudí’s importance to Catalan heritage. The Generalitat plans to advance projects such as completing the Tower of Jesus at the Sagrada Familia and constructing a grand plaza in front of the temple (Lamor, 2024).

Focus on Citizen Engagement

Unlike the UIA Congress, which is tailored for architectural professionals, the activities planned throughout 2026 are designed to engage the broader public, fostering a greater appreciation for architecture and its impact on urban life. This comprehensive approach aims to leave a lasting legacy, enhancing Barcelona’s reputation as a global leader in architectural innovation and sustainable urban development.

Looking Ahead

As Barcelona prepares to welcome the world’s leading architects, the city is not only showcasing its architectural heritage but also reaffirming its commitment to addressing the critical challenges of urban sustainability. The 2026 World Congress of Architects promises to be a pivotal event, shaping the future of urban design and policy for years to come.

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