Placa Nova 5,
Jaume I

Situated opposite the gothic Cathedral, this blocky but functional building has a three sided mural which was designed by Picasso in 1957. Within the Collegi there are regular exhibitions relating to contemporary architecture, plus a specialist architects bookshop.

The Collegi's exhibition space, situated on the ground floor, is well worth checking out for some interesting new angle on the architectural world. The exhibitions are free and informative (often with English translations at hand), although they occasionally lean towards the architectural anorak. This is primarily a place for people with a passion already, so all is as it should be.

A few steps down take you through the centre's café bar to the excellent bookshop below. A great place to browse, it stocks a thorough selection of titles within the architectural theme. In the monographs section you can swat up on as many names as you'll ever need to drop at your next swanky arts party; and in the section downstairs you'll even find some designer goods to help snazz up your own ultra-cool living space.

contributors: Nigel Hayler (& Debbie Stubbs- Place Details)