Josep Lluís Mateo recently took part in the colloquium “Barcelona 2026: Year of Architecture” held at the Círculo Ecuestre in Barcelona, alongside architect Benedetta Tagliabue and Barcelona’s Chief Architect Maria Buhigas. The discussion, moderated by architect José Ribas Folguera and sponsored by CaixaBank, reflected on the future of the city in the context of Barcelona being designated UNESCO-UIA World Capital of Architecture 2026

During the conversation, the speakers addressed key challenges for contemporary cities, including urban identity, housing, public space and the role of architecture in improving everyday life. Mateo emphasized architecture as the discipline that gives physical presence to “dreams, ideas and collective needs,” highlighting the importance of maintaining qualitative ambition in the built environment.

The debate concluded with reflections on the future of Barcelona, underlining the importance of preserving the city as a vibrant centre for knowledge production and architectural culture.