The Eixample
of Barcelona
The Eixample district of Barcelona dates back to the 19th century, when nonstop growth and expansion forced the city to dismantle its ancient walls. Once the surrounding lands were accessible, the Pla Cerdà, designed by urban engineer Ildefons Cerdà, was implemented to commence the full-on expansion of the city.
Thus was born one of the world’s most easily recognized urban districts, the Eixample, with its characteristic grid made up of neatly aligned octagonal blocks.
The neighborhood quickly became the preferred residential zone for the Catalan bourgeoisie, bolstered in large part by the modernist movement, easily observed in emblematic structures like La Pedrera, Casa Batlló, Casa Amatller, Casa Lleó i Morera, and Casa Rocamora.
Since the 1990s, the west side of the Eixample has been dubbed the “Gaixample”, an LGBT zone such as you’re likely to find in any modern cosmopolitan city. The district is known for its specialized shops, trendy stores, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, specially oriented towards the LGBT community.
To this day, the Eixample remains one of Barcelona’s favorite neighborhoods, not only for its numerous and world-renowned historical sites, but also for the amazing array of cultural venues and events held within its bounds.
Thus was born one of the world’s most easily recognized urban districts, the Eixample, with its characteristic grid made up of neatly aligned octagonal blocks.
The neighborhood quickly became the preferred residential zone for the Catalan bourgeoisie, bolstered in large part by the modernist movement, easily observed in emblematic structures like La Pedrera, Casa Batlló, Casa Amatller, Casa Lleó i Morera, and Casa Rocamora.
Since the 1990s, the west side of the Eixample has been dubbed the “Gaixample”, an LGBT zone such as you’re likely to find in any modern cosmopolitan city. The district is known for its specialized shops, trendy stores, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, specially oriented towards the LGBT community.
To this day, the Eixample remains one of Barcelona’s favorite neighborhoods, not only for its numerous and world-renowned historical sites, but also for the amazing array of cultural venues and events held within its bounds.