Sarrià-Sant Gervasi
On paper, the district of Sarrià-Sant Gervasi couldn’t be better: it is considered one of the greenest areas in Barcelona and is one of the gateways to the Serra de Collserola Natural Park. Its population of 148,000 inhabitants is spread out across some 20 km2 and various neighbourhoods, which were gradually annexed to the capital of Catalonia over the years. These include Sarrià, Sant Gervasi-La Bonanova, Sant Gervasi-Galvany, Vallvidrera, Tibidabo i les Planes, El Putxet i el Farró, and Les Tres Torres. Locals attest to the fact that most of the neighbourhoods still retain a wholesome small-town atmosphere, owing to their past as independent communities. In fact, the village of Sant Gervasi de Cassoles became a part of the city in 1897 and Sarrià as late as 1921.
On any trip to Barcelona, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi is a perfect option for some downtime, owing to its peaceful, residential feel. Locals go about things at their own pace, far-removed from the frenzy of the capital. But this doesn’t mean to say that the neighbourhood doesn’t have good transport links with the centre or that it doesn’t cater towards tourists. Sarrià-Sant Gervasi also boasts must-visit museums such as CosmoCaixa, iconic churches like Sagrat Cor (standing over 500 metres tall), Gaudí monuments such as Torre Bellesguard and the historic Tibidabo theme park. What’s more, its university campuses attract students from all over the world.
The district’s location, close to the Serra de Collserola mountain range, gives it a special character, and much of it is a haven of greenery. In the mid-nineteenth century its numerous natural springs and green spaces soon began to attract the Catalan bourgeoisie, who began to build homes in the area, hence the various Modernist mansions still standing today that were summer residences for the rich. Among these is Torre Bellesguard, designed by Antoni Gaudí between 1900 and 1909. Although it is one of the Catalan architect’s least-known works, just like the rest it is more than worth a visit. It is said that the building was a hiding place for the famous Catalan bandit Serrallonga after he had committed his crimes. The name Bellesguard, which means ‘pleasant view’ in Catalan, is completely justified due to the beautiful panoramic views that can be seen from it. Close to the house and within the same property is the viaduct also designed by Gaudí. We also recommend admiring the Modernist façades of the beautiful mansions on Avinguda del Tibidabo, which are a good excuse for travelling on the historic Tramvia Blau (Blue Tram).
Among all the gardens and parks in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi one that deserves a special mention is L’Oreneta Park, an urban park spanning 17 hectares which opened to the public in 1978 and from whose boundaries you can really get a feel for the proximity of the mountain range. It was once the site of two rural estates and a castle, of which there are few remains. It boasts a childrens’ park, a picnic area and even a small train for the little ones. We also recommend visiting the Turó del Putxet Gardens and Monterols Park.
In the upper part of the district is another must-visit place: Tibidabo. It can be reached by funicular to admire the views as well as to enjoy the historic theme park that opened in 1901 and still operates with a mix of old and modern rides. It is no doubt one of those places imprinted in the childhood memories of many local people. Facing it is the Torre Collserola, designed by Norman Foster for the 1992 Olympic Games. Standing 288 metres tall and 560 metres above sea level, it is the main telecommunications tower in Catalonia.
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