The square is dominated by two imposing buildings, headquarters of the main centers of local political power: the Generalitat of Catalonia and the City Hall.
Barcelona City Hall (Casa de la Ciutat), seat of the Barcelona City Council, is notable for the Neoclassical main facade,the Gothic facade, the Hall of One Hundred and courtyard.
The Palace of the Generalitat is the seat of the Presidency of the Generalitat of Catalonia and the autonomous government. Behind the great Renaissance facade, the palace has Gothic, flamboyant Gothic, Baroque and neo-Gothic architectural elements. 23 April, 24 September and 11 September are open days at the Palau de la Generalitat.