Sant Andreu de Palomar, Historical district in northern Barcelona, Spain
Sant Andreu de Palomar is a district in northern Barcelona that stretches along Rovira i Virgili street and is bordered by Meridiana Avenue and railroad tracks. The area mixes residential buildings with green spaces and features the large Westfield La Maquinista shopping center as a focal point for activity.
The district functioned as an independent municipality with agricultural roots until 1897, when it was formally annexed and became part of Barcelona. This merger marked its transformation from a rural area into an urban neighborhood during Barcelona's expansion period.
The Fabra i Coats cultural center, set in a former textile factory, serves as a gathering place where locals engage in artistic activities and community events. The neighborhood retains a strong sense of identity rooted in its industrial past and working-class traditions.
The neighborhood connects easily to central Barcelona through multiple public transport options, making it accessible from other parts of the city. Since the area covers considerable ground, it is best explored by focusing on specific sections rather than trying to see everything at once.
In 2015, the neighborhood demonstrated strong community mobilization when voters expressed support for administrative change through a significant majority. This moment revealed how the residents maintained their independent spirit and sense of self-determination.
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