Barcelona 22@ district, also known as the Innovation District, is a transformative urban project located in the Sant Martí area, particularly encompassing Poblenou and its neighboring zones. Initiated in 2000 by the Barcelona City Council, the district was designed to convert 200 hectares of former industrial land into a vibrant center for technology, knowledge, and innovation, while also increasing residential and leisure spaces. Today, 22@ stands as one of Europe’s most ambitious urban regeneration schemes, blending modern architecture, business, and community life.
Barcelona 22@ District Administrative Facilities and Services
The 22@ district was purposefully developed with a “compact city” model, integrating administrative services, public facilities, and green spaces to support both residents and businesses. The area boasts:
- 220,000 m² dedicated to new public facilities, including municipal buildings, libraries, and community centers.
- 145,000 m² of land allocated for city facilities and 114,000 m² for green areas, ensuring a balanced urban environment.
- Social housing projects, with 4,000 new subsidized residences, to promote inclusivity and affordability.
- Preservation of architectural heritage, with 114 elements of industrial interest maintained, such as old factory chimneys, blending the past with the district’s modern vision.
The district’s strategic location offers excellent transport connections, making it accessible and attractive for international development and local residents alike.
Employment Opportunities
Since its inception, 22@ has become a magnet for knowledge-intensive activities and innovation-driven enterprises. The district is home to:
- Over 4,500 new companies since 2001, with approximately 47% being start-ups and the remainder relocating from other areas.
- Major international firms such as Yahoo!, Microsoft, SAP, NTT Data, and Sanofi-Aventis have established offices here, alongside dynamic local start-ups.
- Five sectoral clusters focusing on audiovisual media, information and communication technologies, energy, design, and biotechnology, fostering collaboration and growth.
- An estimated 90,000 workers, representing a 62.5% increase since 2000, and generating a business turnover of around €8.9 billion annually.
The district’s emphasis on innovation, networking, and talent attraction has made it a benchmark for urban, economic, and social transformation, inspiring similar projects worldwide.
Specific Information
- Location: Southeastern Barcelona, primarily in Poblenou, stretching from Plaça de les Glòries to near the beach.
- Landmark Buildings: The iconic Torre Glòries (formerly Torre Agbar) by Jean Nouvel marks the district’s entrance, while the Edificio Forum and Media ITC showcase cutting-edge architecture and technology.
- Cultural Venues: The district features the Design Museum (DHUB), Mercat dels Encants (a vibrant flea market), Teatre Nacional de Catalunya, and L’Auditori, enriching the cultural landscape.
- Community Life: Unique shops, design studios, and green spaces like Parc Diagonal Mar and Parque Central de Poblenou offer residents and visitors a dynamic urban experience.
- Population Growth: The resident population has grown by 22.8% since 2001, outpacing the city average and reflecting the district’s appeal as a place to live and work.
Barcelona 22@ District Summary
Barcelona 22@ district exemplifies successful urban regeneration, transforming a once-declining industrial area into a thriving innovation hub. With its focus on technology, business, culture, and quality of life, 22@ offers a model for sustainable urban development. It is a district where cutting-edge companies, creative talent, and vibrant communities coexist, making it a cornerstone of Barcelona’s global competitiveness and a blueprint for future cities.
Most Searched Keywords about Barcelona Public Sector
Explore Cardiff Techniquest here!
Cardiff's Premier Science Discovery Centre - Visit the Science Marvel!
