14 September 2024
La Paloma’s interior features intricate ceiling murals and gilded embellishments, blending classic baroque styles with Catalonian artistry
La Paloma, an architectural gem and a cultural beacon in Barcelona’s nightlife, has triumphantly reopened, marking a new chapter for Europe’s oldest nightclub. Established in 1903, this legendary venue is unveiling an autumn programme featuring the likes of Nightmares On Wax, Bradley Zero, Weval, Theo Parrish, Hot Chip and Antal, among others, rekindling its historic allure.
After several years of closure, La Paloma has slowly come back to life over the past 18 months, captivating its 1,000-strong audience as it continues to host top-tier performers throughout the year.
The true splendour of La Paloma, however, lies in its meticulously preserved baroque interior. The red and gold details reflect a sense of grandeur that transcends time. From its intricate gilded details to the intimate booth seating, which graces both the dancefloor and the balcony, La Paloma provides a majestic backdrop for revellers to enjoy the atmosphere from varied perspectives. This fusion of architectural heritage and modern nightlife creates an enchanting setting that continues to define the essence of Barcelona’s storied club scene.
The club, located at Carrer del Tigre in Barcelona, is one of Europe’s oldest nightclubs, with a history dating back to 1903. Initially founded by three friends in what was once the Comas foundry, the venue quickly gained a notorious reputation for brawls and unruly behavior. However, under new management by Jaume Daura and later his son Ramon, La Paloma transformed into a more sophisticated and orderly establishment, becoming a cornerstone of Barcelona’s nightlife scene.
Its interior design is heavily inspired by the grandeur of Versailles. In 1915, Ramon Daura commissioned prominent artists, including Salvador Alarma and Miquel Moragas, to create opulent decorative works for the venue. Alarma, a set designer at Barcelona's Liceu opera house, and Moragas, a renowned painter, adorned the ceilings with grand canvases portraying various forms of dance, from aristocratic to folk traditions. Manuel Mestres, another key figure, added intricate details reminiscent of the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles, with gilded reliefs, garlands, lyres, and a signature chandelier, evoking an atmosphere of opulence and theatrical elegance.
Throughout its history, La Paloma has hosted a diverse range of events, from dance sessions featuring mambo and tango to modern cultural performances and concerts. The nightclub is not only a historical venue but also an artistic and architectural gem that preserves the spirit of early 20th-century Barcelona.
La Paloma’s unique blend of Belle Époque influences and Catalonian artistry has helped it endure as an iconic institution for over a century.
La Paloma’s autumn programme offers a carefully curated selection of acts. Check it out below.
