The Xavier Corberó Center for Artistic Activities and Research (now Espai Corberó), located in the suburb of Esplugues de Llobregat in Barcelona, embodies the artistic vision of its creator, Xavier Corberó. Sculptor Corberó (1935 – 2017), who is often described as the most important Catalan artist since Antoni Gaudí, has not only left a lasting mark on his hometown with this architectural masterpiece, but has also gained international recognition.
In 1968, Corberó began building his estate on a piece of land in the suburb of Esplugues de Llobregat in Barcelona. The site now comprises a network of several interconnected buildings and courtyards, covering an area of 4,500 square meters and characterized by more than 300 arches. The architecture of the complex is reminiscent of a labyrinth of different heights, niches and corners, all connected by a series of arches and arcades – stairs and paths merge in unexpected ways, creating surprising views and perspectives.
The construction was partly supported by Emilio Bofill, the architect and father of the famous architect Ricardo Bofill. During his lifetime, Corberó financed the constant expansion and redesign of the complex through numerous mortgages and investments in his art. Over the years, this private estate has become a cultural hotspot and has served as a backdrop for various cultural events, including film shoots and fashion shows.
After Corberó’s death in 2017, the house was maintained by his widow, and in July 2022 it was reported that Corberó’s heirs had sold the complex to the municipality of Esplugues for €3m (£2.4m) to be used permanently as a cultural asset. This is to ensure that Xavier Corberó’s life’s work is preserved and continues to be made accessible to the public.1
Further Reading
- Great Video by Nowness at the estate with Xavier Corber: https://www.nowness.com/series/in-residence/xavier-corbero
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xavier_Corber%C3%B3
- https://www.esplugues.cat/es/espai-corbero/
