Viu, our coliving and coworking space, is situated in the Sagrada Familia district, one of Barcelona's most iconic neighbourhoods. We didn't choose this location randomly, as there's much more to this neighbourhood than meets the eye. In this post, we aim to give you a deeper insight into it.
Before our coliving and coworking space existed, these grounds were used for vineyards and cereal crops. They were located outside the city limits of Barcelona, and it wasn't until the 19th century that houses and buildings began to emerge, giving birth to a new neighbourhood. Originally known as "El Poblet," it officially became a part of Barcelona in 1897.
Eventually, in the 20th century, it adopted the name Sagrada Familia, replacing "El Poblet."
Our neighbourhood offers a plethora of things to do and see. If you wish to explore the most remarkable places, start with the temple that lends the neighbourhood its name, the Sagrada Familia. We recommend strolling along Avenida Gaudí, where you'll find a wide array of gastronomic options and delightful terraces perfect for enjoying a drink throughout the year. At the end of the avenue, you'll encounter another point of interest, the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Europe's most significant modernist complex, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The district also has a strong connection to industrialization, with a few factories still preserved. We suggest paying a visit to the former Damm factory, now transformed into an exhibition and concert space, and the Myrurgia factory, which retains its charming Art Deco facade.
Should you desire a moment of relaxation, we recommend seeking out some of the neighbourhood's most emblematic city blocks. You'll discover tranquil parks and gardens where you can take a seat and unwind. The Montserrat Roig Gardens, home to a preserved beer depot amidst the garden, come highly recommended.
Neighbourhood celebrations commence on April 23rd, known as St. George's Day. To kick off the festivities, in the early hours, the Associació Fal·lera Gegantera de la Sagrada Familia awakens the entire neighbourhood with grallas and drums.
Throughout the two-week-long celebrations, various activities are organized, including a gathering of the neighbourhood's giants, an evening of fire, and a human tower event known as "diada castellera." Attending these events is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself and experience Catalan culture firsthand.
The neighbourhood boasts a diverse range of organizations, associations, and facilities such as libraries and markets, which you can actively participate in or make use of. Here's a link where you'll find all the necessary information to familiarize yourself with them.
To fully immerse yourself in the culture and experiences offered by the Sagrada Familia neighbourhood, Viu provides the ideal option for accommodation and work. You can make the most of it by staying and working at our coliving and coworking space. Find all the relevant information about our facilities here.