Reus is the capital of Baix Camp, in the province of Tarragona, in Catalonia, Spain. The area has always been an important producer of wines and spirits. Nowadays it is known for its commercial activity, for being a centre for rock-climbing and as the birthplace of architect Antoni Gaudí. Besides that, Reus also gives home to a pshyciatric hospital, which is famous for its extraordinary beautiful modernist architecture. The building was constructed based on the plans of Lluís Domènech i Montaner. In this article we review what to expect while visiting the Institute of Pere Mata in Reus.
About the Institute of Pere Mata
L’Institut Pere Mata is a psychiatric hospital in Reus. The building was designed by the Catalan modernist architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner. The hospital predates Hospital Sant Pau of Barcelona and it has a similar structure. Lluís Domènech i Montaner followed the structure of different buildings for different specialities. The building process took place from 1897 to 1912. Currently the building is still used as a psychiatric hospital, but one of the pavilions is not in medical use anymore and can be visited.
Opening hours for visitors
| Sunday | 11am – 2pm |
| Monday | 4:30pm – 6pm |
| Tuesday | 4:30pm – 6pm |
| Wednesday | 4:30pm – 6pm |
| Thursday | 4:30pm – 6pm |
| Friday | 4:30pm – 6pm |
| Saturday | 4:30pm – 6pm |
Entrance ticket
The ticket costs 6 EUR, and you can purchase directly at the reception or pre-book your ticket only. They provide English, Spanish, Catalan and German guided tours via guided-headset system. You just need to push the marked number on the device and it plays you in your chosen language relevant information about each of the rooms. The tour starts outside, where we can review the building and its facade from outside.
First room
The tour then continues inside – the first room was used to be used as the common area for the patients, with a lot seating options and beautiful balcony. The design elements, the colourful tiles, painted windows are simply beautiful.
Second room – The “Orange” Saloon
In this room all the tiles and little details are reminding us like we would be walking under orange trees.
Third room – The “Billiard” Saloon
In this room the patients could play billiard or chess during their free times. The ceiling is just as well amazing here.
First floor with the patients´ rooms
Then the tour continues upstairs, where we can first see the amazing windows from outside via the corridor around the facade of the building.
There are several rooms open for visitors, where we can listen interesting facts about the people who stayed in these rooms.
As well as we can check the designed bathrooms and toilettes.
History of the Institute of Pere Mata
In 1898 building work began on the Institute of Pere Mata, one of the great projects of the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner. The building marked the beginning of the brilliant Catalan modernist era in the city of Reus. After its completion, Domènech went on to design other buildings here and the spirit of Catalan modernism spread vigorously throughout the whole city.
How to get to Reus
By car
It’s very easy to reach Reus by car, and it also has an airport, so you can fly directly to the Airport of Reus and rent a car there.
By train
If you land in Barcelona and you would like to go to Reus by train, it is also possible. First you have to catch the RENFE train form Barcelona airport to Barcelona Sants Rail station (journey time approximately 25 minutes). From Barcelona Sants you need to change for the Train to Reus Centre. Trains leave from Barcelona Sants to Reus Centre every hour (approximately).
Enjoy our discounts in Reus
Useful information about Reus
Where to find the Reus?
Reus is the capital of Baix Camp, in the province of Tarragona, in Catalonia, Spain. The area has always been an important producer of wines and spirits.
Is Reus safe?
Reus and The Costa Dorada, or Golden Coast, in Catalonia, is famous for its long stretches of golden, sandy beaches, historical towns and peaceful seaside villages. The whole area is known to be safe.
When is the best time to visit Reus?
The best time to visit Reus is between April and June, and from September to November. The summer months can be super hot, as well as Winter can be chilly and less pleasant for sight-seeing.
Which F.C. Barcelona player is originally from Reus?
Sergi Roberto is originally from Reus.
Best experiences around Reus
Reus has everything a visitor needs to have a great experience. Its natural beauty draws visitors from around the world- along with its numerous important sites and cultural heritage. As far as things to do in the place go, there are plenty of activities available for visitors in and around Reus.
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