ABOUT US
The International Women’s Club of Barcelona (IWCB) has been a thriving community of women since June 6, 1955. Originally founded as the American Women’s Club of Barcelona, it was established to bring together American women and those married to Americans. The club’s first president, Mrs. J.A. Clarke, was elected by a group of just a dozen members.
In its early days, the club’s signature coffee gatherings were hosted in a private room at the Hotel Ritz, offering a much more formal setting than today. Membership directories reflected the customs of the time, listing women under their husband’s names.
Who We Are, Where We Came From, and Where We’re Headed
Evolution of IWCB
A legacy of friendship, culture, & community—connecting women in Barcelona since 1955.
Early Activities & Events
From the start, IWCB has fostered community, cultural exploration, and philanthropy. Early events included welcome teas, fashion show fundraisers, wine tours, and Spanish literature study groups, along with Thanksgiving dinners and a Children's Christmas Party. Philanthropy was central, with members volunteering at the Foreign Colonies Hospital and publishing Tips on Barcelona, a guide to help newcomers navigate local customs and shops.
As times changed, so did IWCB. The club became more informal and inclusive, welcoming women of all nationalities who shared a common language—English.
Eventually, the club expanded beyond its American roots, officially becoming the International Women’s Club of Barcelona. While the city and its expat community have evolved, our commitment to friendship, cultural enrichment, and giving back remains at the heart of everything we do.
Our Members
With a membership is currently around 100 women, IWCB brings together English-speaking members from across the globe, including South Africa, Australia, Norway, Catalonia, the UK, the US, Canada, Germany, and more. Our diverse backgrounds—spanning art, music, business, education, consulting, volunteering, and writing—reflect a shared curiosity and love for learning.
We feel fortunate to call Barcelona home and embrace the city’s rich culture, history, and experiences. Many of us understand the challenges of adapting to a new place, which is why friendship, support, and community are at the core of IWCB. Whether building lifelong connections, exploring the city together, or helping others settle in, we are here to make Barcelona feel like home.
Where we are heading
As we move forward, we remain dedicated to fostering friendships, embracing new experiences, and making a positive impact in our community.
We will continue to expand our social, cultural, and philanthropic initiatives, ensuring that members have enriching opportunities to connect, learn, and give back.
With a strong foundation and a shared vision, IWCB is committed to growing as a vibrant, inclusive space where women from all backgrounds feel welcomed, supported, and inspired—now and for years to come.
Leadership & Administration
The International Women’s Club of Barcelona is led by a dedicated team of volunteers who ensure the smooth operation of the club and its activities.
Our governing body includes a President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and other volunteers who manage key aspects of administration, events, and philanthropy. Together, they work to uphold the club’s mission of fostering friendship, cultural engagement, and community support.
Our leadership team, along with member volunteers, plays a vital role in organizing events, maintaining club resources, and ensuring IWCB remains a welcoming and enriching space for all.
Contact
A Community for Women in & around Barcelona
© International Women's Club of Barcelona
Meet Us!
You can find us every Wednesday at our Coffee Mornings, 11am-1pm (1st Floor, Sala Foix) at the Centre Cultural Casa Orlandai, Carrer de Jaume Piquet, 2308017 Barcelona
