A Visit to the Gabriel García Márquez Library in Barcelona

The Best Public Library in the World

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During my recent trip to Barcelona, one of the highlights was visiting the Gabriel García Márquez Library, located in the Sant Martí neighborhood. This library, which opened its doors in 2022, has quickly gained recognition as a cultural landmark, even earning the title of "The Best Public Library in the World" by the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA). My visit to this architectural marvel was a memorable experience that left a lasting impression.

The library’s design, crafted by the talented team at SUMA Arquitectura, immediately catches your eye. The building stands out with its unique geometric form, a cube subtly altered with triangular cut-outs known as chamfers, inspired by the traditional chamfered corners of Barcelona's Eixample district. The main entrance, positioned at the corner of Concili de Trento and Treball streets, invites visitors into the space with a platform slightly elevated above street level, creating a smooth transition from the urban environment to the library’s interior.