Barrio Borne – once the wealthiest district of Barcelona and the trendiest one nowadays.

Barrio Borne is one of the more interesting districts in Barcelona, home to narrow, twisting streets, museums, bars, restaurants and superb shopping, it offers locals and visitors alike a delightful way to spend a fascinating and fun-filled afternoon and/or evening.

It, along with Barrio Gotico, is one of the very oldest areas in all of Barcelona. The two Barrios are divided by Via Laetana Street and the entire district is centered on its main street which is called El Paseo del Born. The area is often referred to as La Ribera, which, loosely translated, means “The Shore.”

Barrio Borne is probably best known for its still-standing medieval buildings with arches that line its winding streets. The buildings currently house varying types of workshops just as they did hundreds of years ago while the names of the streets indicate what kind of artisan or craft activity was taking place inside. For example:  Flassaders (which means blankets) is where citizens could buy woven-to-order blankets. Argenteria (silver) was the street where silversmiths plied their incredible craft. Vidreria (glass) is a shop where skilled glassblowers created remarkable glassware over hot ovens.

La Ribera was built as an extension outside the original Barcelona city walls when the city grew so large that it could no longer house its rapidly-expanding population within the ancient borders once established by the old Roman empire (borders that date way back to the 12th century).

Over a period spanning hundreds of years, La Ribera gradually became known as one of Barcelona’s most important – and popular – commercial districts because of its proximity to the sea. In that long ago period, the Mediterranean Sea actually extended much further inland than it does today … virtually assuring that all maritime trade would pass through La Ribera.

As the merchants of Barrio Borne prospered and became wealthy, they built magnificent mansions and “grand homes” as a way, perhaps, to show off their great wealth. These homes were almost all built on Carrer Montcada Street which quickly grew in popularity as a haven for the very wealthy. The street, with its subdued and subtle street lights and its imposing mansions, still impresses travelers today. However, many of the private homes have become museums and superb private art galleries.

A noteworthy event shaped the modern Barrio Borne. During the first decade of the twentieth century, city planners developed an “Urban Renewal Plan” that led to the construction of the Via Laietana area as it exists today. This modernization came with a very high cost. 2199 buildings were razed and 82 streets literally disappeared off the Barcelona map. Of course, the citizens who lost their homes had to be relocated to other parts of Barcelona.

There are wonderful things to see in Barrio Borne. One of the “can’t miss” stops for visitors is the Museo Picasso. This spectacular museum occupies five medieval mansions, all of which have been joined together after a lengthy restoration project. The Museo Picasso houses one of the city’s finest art collections and reflects Picasso’s development as an artist over the many years of his long and productive life.

Another great sight to see. La Iglesia de Santa Maria del Mar (The Church of St. Mary by the Sea) is one of the true “must see” sights in La Ribera. A stunningly beautiful example of Catalan gothic architecture, the church got its name many years ago because of its close proximity to the Mediterranean Sea.

Enjoy family fun at Parc de Ciutadella. A day spent in La Ribera can mean more than just walks down winding streets and stops at museums and art galleries. It can also include a day in the park. Parc de Ciutadella , with its vast expanses of green grass , stately trees and beautiful flowers, provides a welcome break from hot and crowded city streets. The park features some stunning examples of Catalan architecture, including some of Gaudi’s earliest works (dating way back to when he was an apprentice).

Built in an area of the city where a fortress once stood, the park is an ideal place for individuals or families with young children to enjoy a pleasant, relaxing and enjoyable Sunday afternoon.

The district is also home to the old Mercat del Born, a still-standing wrought-iron structure that once housed a commercially-viable market. Today, it serves as a cultural center. Many regular functions, including temporary exhibitions, are held there. And of course, Santa Caterina market which competes with La Boqueria market for the name of the best indoor fresh produce market.

Evenings are meant for fun in “The Born.”
A remarkable transformation, over the last decade, has converted Barrio Borne, now also known as “The Born,” into one of Barcelona’s trendiest and most fashionable districts. The area is filled with bars, restaurants and cafes, all of which make “The Born” an attractive nighttime destination for fun and good times. However, it can get very hectic and noisy most evenings.

“The Born” is also a great place to go for shopping. There are many small, privately-owned shops and boutiques offering extraordinary goods, clothing and jewelry which are generally unavailable in other parts of the city.

Finally … enjoy a much-needed coffee break. If you tire of the crowds, the noise and the walking – take a break. Stop at one of the numerous cafes with open-air terraces, relax and enjoy a delicious and satisfying cup of freshly ground and brewed coffee. It’s the perfect way for you to rest and revitalize.

How to get there
La Ribera is easily accessible by public transportation. You can take the metro: yellow line 4 and get off at Jaume 1 stop. Or, if you prefer, take one on the following bus lines: 14, 39 or 51.

La Ribera (Barrio Borne) is one of the most interesting districts in all of Barcelona. Its narrow, winding streets, gothic architecture, museums, art galleries, trendy and fashionable shops, restaurants, bars and cafes are all reasons why you should include a stop there in your itinerary during your visit to the city.