Via Laietana

The Via Laietana is a major avenue in Barcelona, opened between 1908 and 1913 as part of Ildefons Cerdà’s urban plan and Àngel Baixeras’ inner-city reform project. Its aim was to directly connect the Eixample with the Port Vell, ease congestion in the old city center, and improve urban hygiene. Its construction required the demolition of 270 buildings (including medieval palaces and convents) and the displacement of 10,000 residents, leading to a profound social and heritage transformation. Some buildings were preserved or relocated, such as the Casa Padellàs, now part of the MUHBA. Architecturally, the Via Laietana is marked by buildings inspired by the Chicago School, built in the 1920s–1930s, which give the avenue its harmonious appearance. Today, it is the focus of a new redevelopment project aiming to turn it into a green and civic axis: wider sidewalks, restricted traffic, bike lanes, and priority for public transport, restoring space to residents in the heart of Ciutat Vella.