Enable Location

We need your location to show you interesting places around you

Discover nearby places

Find interesting locations and hidden gems around you

Precise directions

Get accurate directions and distances to places

Your location is never shared with other users. It's only used when you tap the location button.

Vapor Vell

Log in to your account

Start exploring — it's free

Trusted by 60,663 travelers worldwide

Continue with Google
Continue with Apple
or

We will send you a code to connect

By continuing, you accept our Terms and Conditions and our Privacy Policy

Check your inbox

We've sent a pincode in your inbox. Please enter the code below.

Vapor Vell, Neoclassical textile factory and library in Sants, Spain

Description

Vapor Vell is a former textile factory with neoclassical architecture, featuring a central five-story section with two four-story wings built with masonry walls and solid brick foundations. Today, a public library occupies the third and fourth floors, while a school uses the ground through second floors.

History

The factory was founded in 1844 and produced velvet under Güell, Ramis i Companyia until closing in 1889 due to the cotton industry economic crisis. This closure marked the end of a major production phase as the textile sector experienced decline.

Culture

The building holds two official heritage designations, recognized as both a Cultural Asset of National Interest and a Bien de Interés Cultural, reflecting its importance in the local community.

Practical

The library is located in the upper floors and is open to the public, while the school occupies the lower areas. Visitors should be aware that some sections may have restricted access depending on school hours.

Did you know?

After the factory closed, it became the filming location for Spain's first feature film, Riña en un café, directed by Fructuós Gelabert. This milestone in Spanish cinema was captured at this unexpected venue.

Location
Inception
1844
Architectural style
Neoclassical architecture
Elevation above the sea
30 m
Address
Passatge del Vapor Vell s/n
GPS coordinates
41.37694,2.13472
Latest update
December 13, 2025 12:42

AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Sants).

« Vapor Vell - Neoclassical textile factory and library in Sants, Spain » is provided by Around Us (aroundus.com). Images and texts are derived from Wikimedia project under a Creative Commons license. You are allowed to copy, distribute, and modify copies of this page, under the conditions set by the license, as long as this note is clearly visible.

Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!

From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.

Around Us App Screenshot

A unique approach to discovering new places

Le Figaro

All the places worth exploring

France Info

A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks

20 Minutes

Around Us
Travel Guide & Maps
Download

Send to your phone

QR Code
1

Open the camera app on your mobile.

2

Point at the QR code with your camera. A notification will appear.

3

Tap the notification to open the link.