I visited the "most haunted" places in Barcelona and this is how it went...

This article was originally published in The Detour in October 2024

Being a lover of all things macabre and having recently relocated to Barcelona, it only seemed appropriate that I tour the cities most haunted spots this spooky season. So, after many a late hour researching the dark corners of the web and listening to my local friends’ eerie tales, I’ve compiled a list of 5 potentially paranormal places…

1. Rocafort Metro Station

The backstory: Whether it’s down to the unsettlingly high number of accidents on the tracks, or a rumoured mudslide during construction that supposedly claimed the life of a worker, it seems like everyone I speak to has a story about Rocafort. Allegedly, even the metro staff are afraid to stay after hours, with ghostly sounds filling the tunnels and suspicious figures appearing on the CCTV footage.

The station definitely has an older, more dilapidated feel than other more modern stops. The tiles adorning the floors have a scuffed cream and black finish, and the dim lights overhead dress everything in a slight sepia tone. Despite the midday rush of commuters when I visited, this station still felt pretty creepy, and I certainly wouldn’t want to roam the platforms alone in the evening.

/5 spookies

2. Poblenou Cemetery

The backstory: Originally opened in the 18th century, it was briefly destroyed by Napoleon’s troops in 1813, then reopened again in 1819. Aside from being the resting place for thousands of the deceased, it’s the marvellously macabre statues that give this one its spooky points.

At the entrance of the cemetery, I snapped a pic of a large map to help guide my walk, since the place seemed pretty huge. I must say, as someone who appreciates the beauty of a time-worn tomb or two, I was thoroughly impressed. One statue in particular, called ‘The Kiss of Death” really took my breath away. If you ever happen to visit the city on a sunny autumnal day, I thoroughly recommend a peaceful stroll around the grounds. All in all, though, not overly scary.  

/5 spookies 

3. Gran Teatre del Liceu

The backstory: Sat on the famously busy La Rambla (as if that wasn’t scary enough) this theatre is said to be cursed. It was first damaged by a fire in 1861, and then again in 1893 after two bombs were launched into the stalls during an opera performance. The explosion resulted in the death of 20 people. Then, in 1994, another fire broke out, destroying the theatre entirely. Finally, in 1999, it was re-built and opened to the public once again.

From the outside, the building looks a little underwhelming, but after stepping into the foyer, I was met with grand chandeliers and some dramatic green spotlights. Sadly, despite my attempts, I was unable to enter the opera hall without attending a performance—which, from the photos, looks very Phantom-of-the-Opera-esque. 

All in all, I’m not a paranoid person, but let's just say I wouldn’t be putting any hairspray on my hair if I were invited to an upcoming performance. 

/5 spookies

4. Anti-aircraft tunnels

The backstory: Built underneath Barcelona during the Civil War, these tunnels provided refuge to families during bombings.

I was pretty excited to visit, as I’d never heard of them before and at only €3.50 a ticket, the price is surprisingly reasonable too! At the entrance, we were met with an English-speaking guide who led our group down the narrow passageways. From a cold make-shift infirmary to a rubble-filled nursery, it was fairly chilling. The tunnels were eerily quiet and very dark, but if you can handle the claustrophobia, I would highly recommend a visit. 

/5 spookies

5. San Antoni Market

The backstory: At first glance, this bustling market may appear as far from haunted as you could get. However, before it was built in the 1880s, it was allegedly the site of public executions. Today, there are rumours of ghostly figures mingling among shoppers and an uneasy feeling as you step inside.

It’s funny, I actually spent my first 3 months in Barcelona living pretty closed to this market. In fact, the Lidl underneath it used to be my go-to for a big shop. But now, with my new ghost-busting mission in mind, my latest visit was…more or less the same. I’d recommend it as a less-touristy alternative to La Boqueria, but not for phantom foraging. 

/5 spookies

Well, that just about wraps up my ghost-hunting tour of the city. So, is Barcelona haunted? At 13 out of a possible 25 spookies, I’d say that’s a big fat inconclusive!

Have you ever had any ghosts photobombing your Barcelona holiday snaps? If so, please send them in for Jack’s Fright Club to investigate…