Catalonia Square
Spain
Several prominent streets and avenues in Barcelona converge at Plaça Catalunya, including Passeig de Gràcia, Rambla de Catalunya, La Rambla, Portal de l'Àngel, Ronda de Sant Pere, Carrer de Vergara, and Carrer de Pelai. The square spans approximately 50,000 square meters and is known for its stunning fountains and statues, its proximity to popular tourist destinations, and the multitude of pigeons that gather in the center. Additionally, Plaça Catalunya played a crucial role in the Spanish Civil War, notably serving as a site for significant events during the May Days.
History
During the 19th century, the medieval city walls were dismantled and ambitious plans were devised for the city's public areas by renowned urban planners. Plaça Catalunya was originally conceptualized as part of pla Rovira in 1859, but official approval from the government was not granted until the 1888 Universal Exposition. The square was first developed in 1902 and was subsequently renovated in 1929 to coincide with the 1929 Barcelona International Exposition, which also involved the creation of a metro station. The modifications in 1929 were designed by architect Francesc de Paula Nebot.
In May 2011, Plaça Catalunya served as the primary site for anti-government protests and sit-ins in Barcelona, similar to events that took place in other Spanish cities.
Art
Sculpture
At Plaça Catalunya, one can find a variety of prominent public sculptures and monuments that embody Noucentisme, Neo-Classicism, and various avant-garde movements. These include Deessa by Josep Clarà, Pastor de Pau by Pablo Gargallo, the Francesc Macià monument with the inscription "Catalunya a Francesc Macià," and sculptures by Josep Llimona.
Decorative arts
The Barcelona Telephone Exchange (Edificio Telefónica) features a striking addition of four stained glass windows, which were designed in 1991 and installed in the tower lantern. Created by renowned artist Brian Clarke, the colorful artworks were commissioned to honor the 1992 Olympic Games held in the city. They were crafted by the Fundació Centre del Vidre, a local organization, and serve as a vibrant beacon overlooking the square.
Additionally, the walls of the underground section of Plaça Catalunya are adorned with beautiful mosaics. These artistic pieces were designed by students of Escola Massana, further contributing to the city's vibrant decorative arts scene.
Theater
Several theaters were built in Plaça Catalunya after its construction, but none of them exist today. These include Teatre del Bon Retir (1876-1885), Circ Eqüestre Alegria (1879-1895), Eldorado Concert (1887-1929), and Teatre Barcelona (1923-198-). However, there are still other theaters in the surrounding area, situated on different streets or squares.
Cafés and restaurants
Most of the cafes and restaurants in the city where writers and artists used to gather have not endured, except for Café Zurich, which stands out as the workplace of Fabiola of Belgium's brother, a pianist. The Spanish Civil War caused the disappearance of the following establishments:
- Maison Dorée
- Café Colón
- La Lluna
- Café Suís