One of Barcelona’s ten districts, Nou Barris is not amongst the most talked about or visited one. Despite its humble nature, Nou Barris is actually an area rich in beauty and culture and definitely worth a visit.
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Mirador de Torre Baró
Photo credit: Viaja blog via VisualHunt / CC BY-NC-SA
This viewing point in Nou Barris is one of the best places to view the city and the surrounding area. Hidden away at the top of Torre Baro opposite the Castell de Torre Baró, it is a fantastic setting to enjoy the glorious panoramic views. The sights are a little different than those at Montjuic or Tibidabo and offering visitors the chance to look at some of the lesser-known parts of the city.
Parc de la Guineueta
Parc de la Guineueta is another great park in Nou Barris. With large green spaces and a gorgeous lake in the centre – the park has become popular with locals who flock in, especially at weekends, for a nice stroll. There are plenty of trees and shady areas if you want to sit in the shade and relax and there is also a network of pathways that take you around the beautiful park if you want a nice brisk walk.
Parc Central de Nou Barris
Photo credit: Oh-Barcelona.com via Visual Hunt / CC BY
Inaugurated in 1999, Parc Central de Nou Barris is the main park in the district and one of the most beautiful parks in the city. Awarded the International Urban Landscape prize for architecture in 2007, the park is one of the largest in the city and is full of interesting and quirky designs. There is a network of water running trough the park which comes from the two large lakes – these form large tranquil pools as well as a series of impressive fountains. The park also houses some of the district’s most important and culturally significant buildings such as the former Santa Creu Psychiatric Hospital – which has now become the home of the Library of Nou Barris and the Municipal Council of the District of Nou Barris.
All in all the district of Nou Barris is one the most interesting ones Barcelona. It is a refreshing break from the tourist-heavy city centre, exposing visitors to a more local and traditional region of the city.
Is there any history on the name barris? Was wondering why it’s called barris park?
Hi Coralie,
Barris is barrio or neighbourhood. That’s all there is to it 🙂
Regards,
Daniella