Explore how we understand time and practice your Spanish while discovering science, culture, and history
What is the title of the exhibition?
The Invention of Time
Where, when, how, and how much does it cost?
The temporary exhibition The Invention of Time is open until September 30, 2027, at the Martorell Exhibition Center. The name may not ring a bell, but you’ve surely seen the building at some point while strolling through Ciutadella Park. It was the first public museum to open in Catalonia, in 1882, and served for many years as the Museum of Geology. It closed its doors in 2010 and reopened to the public in 2024 (just like the Invernacle the previous year), having been converted into part of the Natural Science Museum as part of the La Ciutadella del Coneixement project. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Regular admission is 6.50 euros, but children under 16 enter for free, and young adults (ages 16–29) and seniors over 65 pay a reduced rate of 4.50 euros. Additionally, admission is free on the first Sunday of the month and every Sunday after 3:00 PM.
What languages is it in?
The information in the exhibition is written in Spanish, Catalan, and English. If you’re not in the mood to read or want to practice your listening skills, you can also choose to use an audio guide in any of the three languages.
What is it about and why should I go?
Visiting The Invention of Time is a great idea for anyone with a curious mind, because it’s not an exhibition focused on a single scientific concept; instead, it takes an interdisciplinary approach to time by combining insights from physics, biology, neuroscience, art, and literature. Time is a concept relevant to all dimensions of life, from the origin of the universe and the evolution of life to memory and the ability to imagine the future. To present all these aspects of time in a clear and engaging way, the exhibition is organized into two main sections: perceived time, which focuses on biological and evolutionary time, and constructed time, which explores time as a cultural and scientific creation.
Is it a good idea to go with children?
It's a great option for curious kids, especially those aged 8 or 10 and up. The exhibition combines science, images, audiovisuals, and reflections on how we perceive time, and it can be interesting for kids. Plus, it’s not a very long exhibition, and the museum is right in Ciudadela Park, so it’s perfect for giving them a place to play and run around before or after seeing the exhibit. Also, kids under 16 get in for free 😉.
Can I have a drink or grab something to eat near the exhibition?
Near Ciudadela Park, there are plenty of places where you can grab a bite to eat or have a coffee. If you're looking for somewhere simple, comfortable, and close by, check out Flora Café: it has an outdoor terrace filled with plants, a very relaxed atmosphere, and is perfect for coffee, juice, a sweet treat, or even brunch.
If you enjoyed this recommendation, check out more exhibitions, hidden corners, and cultural plans in our Barcelona section, a guide full of ideas to explore the city while learning Spanish.
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