Hospital de Sant Pau (Barcelona)

The Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau (The Hospital of the Holy Cross and St Paul) in Barcelona is a World Heritage Site. Located several blocks from La Sagrada Familia Church, this hospital complex was built between 1901 and 1930 and served as a functioning medical establishment until 2009 when it was closed down and later converted into a museum and cultural center. It was designed in a 'Catalan modernisme' style by architect Lluis Domenech i Montaner. This stunningly beautiful hospital is actually a 20th century extension of a hospital system dating back to the 1400s (the original hospital building is located in the Old Quarter of Barcelona). During its prime, it was considered a marvel of innovation, with the utmost concern for its patients' well-being in mind. What is even more astonishing is that it was a general hospital, for use by the residents of the city, rich or poor. The complex consists of 12 separate pavilions, connected by underground corridors and galleries enclosed within a large open park space. If you think that devoting an entire photo page to a hospital is bizarre, then check out these photos. This Art Nouveau structure is considered one of the most impressive architectural sites in the city.