Seafront

Up until a few decades ago, Barcelona was also known as “the city with its back to the water”: shanty towns, industrial buildings and infrastructure facilities built along the coast blocked the city’s view and access to the Mediterranean.

Barcelona’s opening to the sea came with the introduction of democracy in Spain and particularly as part of the 1992 Olympic Games.

The construction of the Olympic Village and Harbour, the creation of an attractive pedestrianised seafront promenade and the intelligent incorporation of the city motorway have been significant steps in reclaiming the coastline, changing the face of the city dramatically.

Today Barcelona is a vibrant European metropolis and one of the world’s leading tourist destinations. Yet at the same time, the rising number of visitors presents one of the most prominent challenges to the city that is called upon to devise strategies towards a sustainable, future-proof tourism.

Who will be guiding you around Barcelona´s waterfront redevelopment?

A local architect of Guiding Architects (The world’s largest network of architecture tour companies, established in 1996):

• We deliver relevant, accurate and up-to-date information in a dynamic and entertaining way.
• We design authentic, off-the-beaten-track experiences that strive to exceed your expectations.
• We provide insightful reflection and inspirational views on the city that only passionate architects like us can convey.

Selection of projects included in the tour

Parc de la Ciutadella | Josep Fontserè i Mestre
Casa de la Marina | José Antonio Coderch + Manuel Valls Vergés
Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta | Julià Espinàs, Olga Tarrasó, Jaume Artigues, Miquel Roig + Jordi Henrich
Edifici Gas Natural – Torre Mare Nostrum | EMBT Enric Miralles + Benedetta Tagliabue
Hospital del Mar | Manuel Brullet + Albert de Pineda
Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona | Albert de Pineda, Manuel Brullet + Alfonso de Luna
Port Olímpic | MBM Arquitectes

Duration: Half-day tour

Transport: Bicycle

Service: Experienced architect as a guide, reservations

Languages: German, Spanish, Catalan, English, French, Italian, Dutch

Max participants: 25 pax/group