Barcelona Multiple: Transformaciones Urbanas, Ciudadanos, Visitantes E Inmigrantes. De Ciudad Condal Vencida A Urbe Postolimpica

Resumen del Libro

This Dissertation examines how the development of Barcelona, first as an industrial city and then as a spectacular and hi-tech urban center, has been highly influenced by its relationship with visitors and immigrants. The burning of churches in 1835 and the destruction of the city walls in 1854 inaugurated Barcelonas modern existence as a metropolis where urban space is, both symbolically and economically, extremely contested. Although the main battles were about social and economic differences (i.e. between the upper and lower classes), the fact that Barcelona was the capital of the nation of Catalonia (repressed by the Spanish State) made the native population deeply perceptive of cultural differences. As a consequence, socio-economic and political tensions between the locals and the newcomers were often seen in terms of ethnic difference. At the same time, whereas immigrants were portrayed both as a menace to Barcelonas local culture and international image, the arrival of international capital and visitors was highly welcomed.