The picturesque neighbourhood of Sarrià in Barcelona has preserved its charm and distinctive character, maintaining a quiet village-like atmosphere amidst the bustling metropolis.
Each of the neighbourhoods in Barcelona has its own characteristics and personality. One of the most charming is the Sarrià neighbourhood, belonging to the Sarrià-Sant Gervasi district. Located in the northwest area of Barcelona, it has a rich history that dates back to medieval times. Originally, Sarrià was a small agricultural town on the outskirts of the city, surrounded by orchards and vineyards.
History of Sarrià
During the Middle Ages, this neighbourhood was known for its agricultural production and role as a crossing point on the trade routes that connected Barcelona with the interior of Catalonia. As the city of Barcelona grew, Sarrià became a refuge for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the urban centre. The Catalan nobility built their summer residences in the area, creating majestic mansions and elegant estates that can still be admired today.
In the following centuries, Sarrià experienced slow but steady growth, establishing itself as a prosperous residential enclave. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the neighbourhood underwent a period of expansion and modernisation, with the construction of new infrastructure and the arrival of the railway that connected Sarrià with the centre of Barcelona. It became the location of many religious schools that educated the Barcelonian bourgeoisie, which are still prominent today in the neighbourhood. It was not until 1921 that Sarrià was annexed to the city, becoming the last village to do so.
Despite its growth and development, Sarrià managed to preserve its charm and distinctive character, maintaining its atmosphere as a quiet village amidst the bustling metropolis. Nowadays, its quaint streets seem frozen in time and invite visitors to wander around and relax in one of the numerous cafes on its quiet squares.
Sarria nowadays
In recent decades, Sarrià has experienced a renaissance, attracting a new generation of residents and visitors with its unique blend of history, charm, and modern amenities. It remains a haven for those seeking a peaceful and sophisticated lifestyle, away from the hustle and bustle of Barcelona. Its proximity to the Collserola mountains, very popular with cyclists and runners, the presence of top-notch schools, and its excellent public transport connections to the city center make Sarrià one of the most desirable places to live in Barcelona.
Places of interest
Some places of interest in the area are the Plaça de Sarria (Sarria’s main square), which features the Romanesque Sant Vicenç church; the Carrer Major (the high street), with its abundance of shops, restaurants, and cafes; the ‘Mercat de Sarrià’ (Sarrià’s market); and the Parc de l’Oreneta, one of the area’s green parks.
Some recommended restaurants include Tram-Tram, Vivanda, Santamassa, and Bocconi. Also, the low-key and popular Bar Tomás is known to offer the best “patatas bravas” in town. If you want to take a trip back in time, visit the iconic ‘Foix de Sarrià’, a beautiful old-fashioned patisserie that has been in business since 1886. It has two shops, one in Carrer Major 57 and the other in Plaça Sarrià.
