
Institut Pere Mata Reus
A breathtaking Modernist architectural gem, Institut Pere Mata Reus offers a journey into history and design. Explore its stunning interiors and learn...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, more relaxed

Institut Pere Mata Reus
Best Time
Less crowded, more relaxed

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking Modernist architectural gem, Institut Pere Mata Reus offers a journey into history and design. Explore its stunning interiors and learn its past.
"Absolutely gorgeous place. One of the best samples of Modernism. Absolutely must see."

🎯 Weekend Access Only
The museum is typically only open on weekends. Plan your visit accordingly!
🚌 Public Transport Research
Bus routes can be confusing. Check schedules and stops in advance to avoid getting lost.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Modernist Architecture
Marvel at the breathtaking Modernist design, a true architectural gem.

Audio Tour Experience
Gain historical insights into this former mental institution with an educational audio guide.

Former Rich Patient Wing
Discover the beautifully preserved interiors of the section that once housed affluent patients.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weekend Visits & Transport
Explore the Museum Wing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Weekend Access Only
The museum is typically only open on weekends. Plan your visit accordingly!
🚌 Public Transport Research
Bus routes can be confusing. Check schedules and stops in advance to avoid getting lost.
🎧 Don't Skip the Audio Tour
It's highly recommended for understanding the history and architecture.
📸 Capture the Details
The intricate architectural details are stunning – bring your camera!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Weekend Access Only
The museum is typically only open on weekends. Plan your visit accordingly!
🚌 Public Transport Research
Bus routes can be confusing. Check schedules and stops in advance to avoid getting lost.
🎧 Don't Skip the Audio Tour
It's highly recommended for understanding the history and architecture.
📸 Capture the Details
The intricate architectural details are stunning – bring your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Institut Pere Mata Reus for its outstanding and delightful Modernist architecture, calling it an absolute must-see. The educational audio tour is highly valued for providing historical context about the former mental institution. While the beauty of the accessible museum wing is undeniable, some visitors note the difficulty in reaching it via public transport and the disappointment that the gardens are not accessible.
"Amazing architecture of Modernism. The part of the building that is open and accessible, is beautiful and worth a visit. The audio tour is provided, so you get to know the history of mental institution. Unfortunately you can’t visit the gardens, as it is still a working hospital for mentally disturbed.
The part of hospital that is now a museum, use to accommodate rich patients. If you are visiting Reus don’t miss the opportunity."
Ross Malickis
"Very interesting place to visit. It has beautiful interior. The audio tour was educational, and one of the guides gave an in depth explanation about the plans for the institute which was very helpful to understand more of the place. I went here with my friend and we definitely recommend visiting as we had a great experience!"
Gabriëlle Soffers
"Absolutely gorgeous place. Opening times only on weekends and a bit hard to reach by public transport. There are a few bus connections to the centre but you have to figure them out beforehand. From the bus station there are no signs to the museum but with google maps it is easy to find. Most of the complex is still a mental institution and closed to the public."
Caspar Dechmann
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Institut Pere Mata Reus is best accessed by public transport or taxi. While there are bus connections from the city center, they can be infrequent and require some planning. Research specific routes like the L4 bus beforehand. Google Maps is helpful for navigation once you're in the area, as signage can be limited.
It can be a bit tricky to find, especially if relying solely on public transport. From the bus station, there aren't many signs pointing directly to the museum. Using a navigation app like Google Maps is highly recommended.
Driving is an option, but parking availability might vary. It's advisable to check for local parking regulations or designated areas near the institute.
Reus is well-connected by train and bus to major cities in Catalonia, including Barcelona. From the Reus train or bus station, you can then proceed to Institut Pere Mata.
While there isn't a specific 'getting around' tour, the audio guide provided within the museum offers historical context and helps you navigate the accessible parts of the institute.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Institut Pere Mata Reus is primarily open on weekends. It's crucial to check their official website or local listings for the most up-to-date opening hours, as these can vary.
It's generally a good idea to purchase tickets in advance, especially if you're visiting during peak weekend hours, to ensure entry and avoid queues.
Ticket prices can vary, but they are generally considered reasonable for the experience. Check the official website for current admission fees.
Unfortunately, the gardens are not accessible to the public as the complex is still a functioning hospital. Visitors can only explore the designated museum areas.
There are no specific age restrictions mentioned for general visitors, but the historical context might be more appreciated by older children and adults.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the stunning Modernist architecture of the former mental institution, particularly the wing that housed wealthy patients. The audio tour provides rich historical context.
Yes, an audio tour is provided and highly recommended. It offers in-depth information about the history, architecture, and former inhabitants of the institute.
A visit usually takes about 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you spend listening to the audio tour and exploring the accessible areas.
No, only a specific part of the complex, which has been converted into a museum, is open to the public. The majority of the site remains a working hospital.
It's worth checking their official website for any temporary exhibitions or special events that might be happening during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the museum areas, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions or 'no photo' signs. Capturing the architectural details is a must!
Focus on the intricate facades, the interior courtyards, and any preserved decorative elements. The unique Modernist style offers many photogenic opportunities.
Drone photography is highly unlikely to be permitted due to the site being a functioning hospital and a historical monument. Always adhere to local regulations.
While not explicitly stated, it's good practice to avoid using flash photography in historical indoor spaces to protect delicate materials and for the comfort of other visitors.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the grandeur of the buildings, while a standard lens can focus on the intricate details and decorative elements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the visual aspects – the unique shapes, the colorful tiles, and the grand scale of the buildings. It's a great opportunity to discuss historical buildings and how they differ from modern structures. Since the gardens are not accessible, the visit is primarily indoors, which can be good for managing younger children's energy levels.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
Take your time to explore the accessible museum wing and absorb the details. The audio tour will provide valuable context about the architect's intentions and the historical significance of the building. Consider bringing a good camera to capture the intricate facades and interior details.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
It's a place that encourages quiet contemplation and appreciation of its beauty and historical weight. The manageable size of the accessible area makes it easy to navigate independently. Plus, the insights gained from the audio guide can spark personal reflection on history and design.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Modernism
The museum section specifically showcases the former wing that accommodated wealthier patients, offering a glimpse into the luxurious and thoughtful design intended for their care. The layout emphasizes natural light and ventilation, with spacious rooms and elegant common areas. Even though the gardens are not accessible, the architectural vision of integrating the building with its natural surroundings is palpable. The Institut Pere Mata Reus is not just a historical site; it's a testament to how art and architecture can be employed for therapeutic purposes.
Many visitors are captivated by the sheer beauty and intricate details of the architecture, often describing it as a 'must-see' for lovers of Modernism. The audio tour provides crucial context, explaining the historical significance of the institute and the architectural choices made by Domènech i Montaner. It helps visitors appreciate the harmonious blend of functionality and artistic expression that defines this remarkable structure.
A Glimpse into History and Healthcare
The accessible museum wing offers a unique opportunity to learn about the evolution of mental health treatment and the role of architecture in patient recovery. The audio tour delves into the daily lives of patients and staff, the medical practices of the era, and the social context surrounding the institution. It's a poignant reminder of how far healthcare has come, while also highlighting the enduring principles of creating supportive environments.
While the institute continues to function as a hospital for individuals with mental health conditions, the museum provides a respectful and educational insight into its past. Visitors often express how educational and eye-opening the experience is, gaining a deeper understanding of both architectural history and the history of medicine.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit