'Open Barri' invites public to discover Barcelona's lesser-known architecture

'Open Barri' is a cultural and architectural initiative promoted by the 48h Open House Barcelona festival. 

It forms part of the official program of Barcelona World Capital of Architecture 2026, a designation recognized by UNESCO-UIA (International Union of Architects).

The project aims to shine a light on neighborhoods that are often missing from the cultural spotlight and to highlight their social, urban, and architectural value.

The first edition of 'Open Barri' takes place in Nou Barris from February 16 to March 1.

The two-week program will feature a range of activities, including talks, workshops, debates, guided walks, and participatory events.

After Nou Barris, future spring and summer editions will take place in the La Marina and Vallvidrera neighborhoods.

Each edition ends with a weekend when the public can visit emblematic buildings and spaces in the neighborhood, following the model of the 48h Open House BCN festival.

"We want to take advantage of the World Capital of Architecture and show everyone in the city that what happens in neighborhoods is real life," said Ana María Álvarez, communication manager of 48h Open House Barcelona, to Catalan News. "You don't have to go to the city center. There is architecture next to your home, and you should be able to enjoy it, get to know it, and go inside."

The project seeks to make architecture more accessible and to promote a more inclusive and decentralized view of Barcelona. 

According to Álvarez, architecture should not be seen as a specialist field. "We live in buildings. We develop our lives in buildings, so everyone should know a bit about architecture."

Each 'Open Barri' edition is structured around three key concepts. "One is 'enter', another one is 'listen'. And the third one is 'think,' Álvarez explains. 

Activities are grouped around these axes, combining open-door visits, music-based projects, radio programs, and public discussions.

In Nou Barris, the program highlights spaces such as Can Valent, a former farmhouse that illustrates the area's agricultural past and its later urban development. 

The festival has been organized in close collaboration with neighborhood associations, local archives, and residents. 

"Our association acts as a loudspeaker," said Miquel Zuzama, programmer of 'Open Barri', the aim is to "amplify the work of the people who know the territory best and who have fought to ensure this heritage is not lost."

With 'Open Barri', the organisers want to turn the World Capital of Architecture into a shared and decentralized celebration. 

One that places neighborhoods at the center and deepens the understanding of where Barcelona's architectural heritage lives.