About the Biennial
Quantum physics seems like an abstract theory far removed from our daily lives, but in reality, the understanding of quantum phenomena and their applications have transformed the world of the early 20th century into the world of today and have reconfigured the economic system and our social organization. Quantum theory has given rise to inventions such as the laser, GPS, fiber optics or the transistor, which is the basis of the modern electronic circuit, and has made current communications systems possible. In addition to all this technological explosion, which is known as the First Quantum Revolution, quantum physics has also had an impact on philosophy and cultural and artistic creation. Its principles have challenged the classical notion of reality and have contributed to unseating some of the creative pillars of the 19th century, such as the omniscient narrator, narrative sequentiality or figurative art.
But quantum physics is a young theory that still holds surprises. For example, quantum communication systems are already being developed that promise hacker-proof security and quantum computers that could perform calculations impossible for current supercomputers. Experts are already saying that we are immersed in the Second Quantum Revolution.
From a broad and multidisciplinary vision that incorporates scientific, artistic and philosophical perspectives, the City and Science Biennial will explore how quantum physics has permeated the social, political, economic, scientific and cultural constructions of today's world and will analyze the challenges and opportunities that open up in the new world drawn by second-generation quantum technologies.
The City and Science Biennial is one of the most important scientific culture events held in the city of Barcelona, which shows the firm commitment that Barcelona City Council has made to scientific policy. In fact, it is one of the initiatives included in the Barcelona Strategic Plan for Science and Innovation 2024-2027 with the aim of strengthening the dissemination and communication activities of science, to generate critical capacity, knowledge and scientific vocation in all ages. The first three editions have already attracted 30.000 visitors.
This 2025 Biennial brings you a lot of proposals to experience today's accelerated changes, experience creativity, complexity, research and its processes, and delve into quantum. Everything, from science and knowledge.
Experience the City and Science Biennial!