The Catalan capital thus becomes the third city in the world to receive this title, which is renewed every three years, following in the footsteps of Rio de Janeiro, which held it in 2020, and Copenhagen, the current capital.
“"Barcelona will continue to build on the successes of Copenhagen, conveying how architecture and culture can address current challenges for global public benefit and future generations."
As part of this designation, the Barcelona City Council will host an extensive program of events, exhibitions, and activities throughout 2026, aiming to demonstrate the importance of architecture and urban design in sustainable development.
These activities will be carried out in cooperation with the Superior Council of Spanish Architects' Associations (CSCAE) and the Official College of Architects of Catalonia (COAC), offering public learning opportunities about the city's unique heritage.
The designation of Barcelona was made upon the recommendation of a joint committee of UNESCO and the UIA, which was chaired by the eminent French architect Dominique Perrault.
