Wednesday, November 29, 2023
This week marks the reopening of the Palau de Congressos de Catalunya by Meliá Hotels International, signifying the restoration of one of Barcelona’s most iconic spaces for MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) tourism after its closure in 2020. The revival of this conference center underscores a strong commitment to solidify Barcelona’s position as a global leader in hosting events and conferences.
Ramón Vidal, the general manager of the Palau de Congressos de Catalunya, expressed enthusiasm about the new beginning, aiming to establish the venue as a frontrunner in attracting the growing demand from the MICE sector. The expertise brought by Meliá Hotels International in managing this stage is evident, reflected in the increasing volume of requests already being received. Key markets identified for focus include the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, and the domestic market. The positive turnover anticipated for 2024 is expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels from 2019.
Situated strategically in the Pedralbes district, adjacent to Avenida Diagonal, a major city thoroughfare, the Palau de Congressos de Catalunya is conveniently located just 15 minutes from Barcelona Airport. Encompassing 35,000 square meters, the modern and versatile space is designed for various events, including conferences, congresses, meetings, exhibitions, and cultural events. The facility boasts 39 adaptable rooms, a cutting-edge auditorium accommodating over 2,000 people, a conference room with 357 seats, spacious halls for meetings and breaks, and a vast exhibition hall covering more than 4,000 square meters. Additionally, the venue distinguishes itself with 25,000 square meters of landscaped gardens and outdoor space, complemented by an iconic hotel featuring 391 rooms, set to reopen under the luxury brand Gran Meliá after a comprehensive refurbishment in early 2024.
The Palau de Congressos de Catalunya has undergone enhancements, including improved insulation, ceiling protection, and updated furniture. Significant upgrades in technology include an 18-meter screen in the main auditorium, the latest sound equipment, and new lighting systems. A dedicated professional team is committed to fulfilling all event production requirements, from audiovisual services and streaming to simultaneous interpreting, scenography, logistics, and entertainment staff.
Setting it apart from other venues, the Palau de Congressos de Catalunya boasts its own Food and Beverage team aligned with Meliá Hotels International’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and quality. This integration aims to bring Meliá’s excellence in hotel services to the conference palace, delivering added value to customers.
The inclusion of the Palau de Congressos de Catalunya and its associated hotel bolsters Meliá’s presence in the area, expanding its portfolio to nine hotels with over 2,300 rooms and 166 meeting rooms. This leadership enhances its capacity to accommodate groups of any size in the Barcelona area, providing a comprehensive and flexible response to the diverse demands of event organizers, encompassing event venues, accommodation, and food and beverage services.
The resurgence of MICE tourism in Barcelona has surpassed expectations, generating an economic impact exceeding €900 million in 2022, according to the Barcelona Turisme Convention Bureau. Notably, associative and corporate meetings achieved a recovery rate of 94.6% compared to 2019. Barcelona, in 2022, secured the top spot globally in the number of delegates for international conferences and ranked 4th in the number of conferences. Maintaining its position in the top 5 for the past two decades, Barcelona continues to be the leading destination for international conferences in Spain, as reported by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).
Saturday, April 27, 2024
Saturday, April 27, 2024
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Sunday, April 28, 2024
