Discovering Sants - Montjuïc
Routes 10/07/2024
Barcelona is made up of different districts that are in turn divided into neighborhoods, each with its own personality and charm. Among them, the Sants-Montjuïc district stands out for its rich history, vibrant culture and impressive natural spaces. In this article we invite you to explore the wonders of Sants-Montjuïc, an area that perfectly combines the past and present of Barcelona.
History
Sants-Montjuïc has a great historical heritage. Originally, the neighborhood of Sants was a small independent town until, in 1897, it was annexed to Barcelona, along with other neighborhoods such as Gràcia, Sant Andreu, Sant Gervasi, Les Corts and Sant Martí. Today, it still preserves its village essence with narrow streets that invite you to get lost walking and a large number of cozy squares where you can sit and have a drink quietly.
Montjuïc, on the other hand, is a mountain that offers a unique look into the city's past. It has witnessed very significant events over the centuries and that is why we can find military treasures such as the castle, but also other places that remember great changes in the city, such as the 1929 International Exhibition and the 1992 Olympic Games, check out Take a look at our route through the Barcelona of sports to discover all the details. If you also want to discover the most unknown places in Montjuïc, this article is for you, don't miss it.
Territorial division
The district is divided into ten neighborhoods: Poble Sec, Marina del Prat Vermell, Marina del Port, Font de la Guatlla, Hostafrancs, La Bordeta, Sants-Badal, Zona Franca and Montjuïc. Between Av. Paral·lel and the foot of Montjuic is the Poble-Sec neighborhood, characterized by a very popular character, it is the largest in the district and one of the best known also for its great theater offering and shelter anti-aircraft gun from the Civil War (Refugi 307) that is still preserved.
Places you can't miss
Shelter 307
It is an air raid shelter that was built during the Spanish Civil War to protect the population from bombings. It has about 400 meters of underground tunnels, where you can find areas that were used as an infirmary, children's room, bathrooms... Currently, it is part of the MUHBA and they offer guided tours to explore the history of the war in Barcelona and the civil resistance of that time.
Parc de l'Espanya industrial
It is located next to Sants Station and was inaugurated in 1985 on the grounds of an old textile factory. The park combines elements of industrial architecture reminiscent of the old factory, such as “El Dragón”, with garden areas, including an artificial lake. In addition, it has sports facilities and children's play areas that offer a place of rest and recreation for visitors.
El Vapor Vell
It is an old textile factory that was founded in 1840 by the Güell family, it was one of the first steam factories in Catalonia. Currently, the Vapor Vell has been converted into a cultural and educational center that houses a library, a school and other community spaces, thus preserving its historical value.
Pl. Espanya
One of the main and most emblematic squares in Barcelona. It was inaugurated in 1929 for the International Exposition. If you want to discover everything that surrounds it, take a look at this article .
MNAC
The Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC) is located in the majestic National Palace of Montjuïc. It houses a magnificent collection of Catalan art, from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. It stands out for its collection of Romanesque art, considered one of the most complete in the world. . The museum, built for the 1929 Exposition, also offers panoramic views of the city from its terrace.
Joan Miró Foundation
Exhibits an extensive collection of his works, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics and drawings. Furthermore, by the artist's will, other works of contemporary art in their various aspects are also displayed in this space. The building, designed by architect Josep Lluís Sert, is an outstanding example of rationalist architecture, full of terraces and open spaces.
CaixaForum
It is a cultural center located in an old modernist factory designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch. Managed by the "la Caixa" Foundation, the center offers temporary art exhibitions, conferences, concerts and educational activities.
Castell de Montjuic
An old military fortress located at the top of Montjuïc mountain. It was built in the 17th century. It has had various uses throughout its history, it has served as a defensive function and also served as a prison. It is currently a museum and its viewpoint offers panoramic views of the city and the port. It also hosts special events.
Teatre Grec
It is an open-air theater that was built for the 1929 International Exposition. It is inspired by the theaters of ancient Greece. It is currently the official headquarters of the Barcelona Grec Festival, designed to give life to this theater again by offering theatrical and musical performances in this unique environment.
