We have reopened some of our venues. Everyone who visits us will need a ticket in advance. Find out more

Our story

Our archive

From the history and construction to programme and design, we are developing an archive to tell the story of the Barbican and Guildhall School of Music & Drama

Photo of Barbican Lakeside during construction

About the archive

In preparation for our 40th anniversary in 2022, the Barbican and Guildhall School of Music and Drama are assembling their collective archive. 

Man drilling concrete

Construction

A Grade II listed building, the Barbican is one of London’s best examples of Brutalist architecture.

Archive photo of man looking at art in the Barbican Art Gallery

Programme

Look back through our programme from when we first opened in 1982 in our Barbican Guide archive

Illustrated Barbican map

Design

Follow the evolution of the Barbican brand through architecture, typography, marketing and beyond. 

Archive talks

Research & Talks

Join us as we build an archive to tell the story of the Barbican and Guildhall School of Music & Drama