Reus: the inland capital of Modernism

Reus is a little-known Catalan capital, despite representing a counterpoint to the maritime cities of the Costa Daurada. Not only due to the objective fact of being inland, but because its own cultural and economic development has configured a truly unique city.

Just by a walk through the center of Reus, we realize that its period of splendor coincided with Catalan Modernism. However, Reus also experienced a process of great growth during the fourteenth century thanks to its commercial flourishing and the favors of Pope Gregory IX, Lord of Reus. Thanks to him, the rose and the papal attributes make up the shield of the city. In the 14th century, the first extension of the Prioral Church of Saint Peter was built, and it would be extended again in the 16th century.

The architectural heritage of Reus grew significantly with the industrial boom that settled in the city during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The industrialists built some of the most impressive buildings in Reus. We especially emphasize the Casa Navàs, in the Plaza del Mercadal and the imposing Pere Mata Institute, also designed by Domènech i Montaner. Also worth mentioning are the Abelló House, the Prat de la Riba Schools and the old Slaughterhouse, currently the Popular Library. Apart from the Baroque Bofarull Palace, these are the most important buildings in the city.

Of touristic interest is also the Gaudí Center de Reus, a museum dedicated to the work of the architect from Reus. It is said that Gaudí was born in Reus although he did not carry out any project in the city. The museum shows models and drawings of the architect's most famous buildings.

To discover Reus is to discover the great names of Catalan Modernism. It is also to discover the interior landscape with all its gastronomic splendor. Visitors should try the local vermouths, the "Menjar blanc" and other local products such as calçots, carquinyolis or Reus’ hazelnuts.