Can Batlló: a benchmark for citizen self-management in Barcelona

In the province of Barcelona, ​​there is one of the most emblematic and representative places of self-management and popular struggle in Europe: Can Batlló. This old factory, located in the Bordeta neighborhood, has been recovered by the community since 2011, becoming a space for neighborhood meetings and cultural activities of great importance for the city.

A factory with history

Built in the 19th century as a textile manufacturing industry, Can Batlló was in its beginnings one of the most important manufacturing bastions of the time. Together with El Vapor Vell and Espanya Industrial, it formed a group of factories that generated great economic activity in Barcelona.

However, after more than 30 years in disuse, Can Batlló was reborn thanks to effort and social mobilization. The neighborhood platform "Can Batlló és pel barri" was formed in 2009 with the aim of recovering this space for the community. Finally, in 2011, they achieved the permanent transfer of one of the ships, known as the Bloc Onze.

A space for creation and citizen participation

Since then, Can Batlló has experienced growth both in size and activities. Numerous carpentry workshops, musical creation, circus and other projects have occupied the different warehouses of the premises, generating a small cultural and artistic universe that transcends the borders of the Bordeta neighborhood.

One of the groups that joined the neighborhood struggle was the Arquitectes de la Col, a group of young professionals who were in charge of giving life to the abandoned industrial warehouses. Their work has contributed to turning Can Batlló into a symbol of culture and horizontal organization, both for the residents of Bordeta and for the entire Sants-Montjuïc district.

In addition to being a space for multiple expression and creation, Can Batlló has hosted various cultural initiatives, workshops, talks and community events that promote citizen participation and cultural diversity in Barcelona.

An oasis of self-management in the middle of the city

Can Batlló has become a reference for those looking for alternatives to conventional leisure spaces. Its streets and walks offer a unique environment where you can breathe art and culture. In addition, it has a bar managed by neighbors, the "Bar Can Batlló", which has become a meeting point for residents of the neighborhood and visitors from other parts of the city.

Can Batlló Park, a green space open to the public, complements this proposal of self-management and citizen participation. There, visitors can enjoy green areas, children's games and outdoor events, making Can Batlló an ideal place for recreation and connection with nature in the middle of the city.

In conclusion, Can Batlló is much more than a set of abandoned industrial warehouses. It is a symbol of struggle, self-management and citizen participation that has managed to become a cultural and social reference in Barcelona. Visiting this space is entering a universe of creativity and community gathering that does not leave any visitor indifferent.