Eixample facts for kids
Eixample is a large and famous district in Barcelona, Spain. Its name means "the expansion" in Catalan. It was built in the 19th century to expand the city beyond its old walls. Eixample is known for its unique grid pattern of streets and beautiful buildings.
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What is Eixample?
Eixample is one of the ten main districts of Barcelona. It is a very important part of the city. The district covers a large area in the center of Barcelona. It connects the old city with the towns around it.
A Special Design
The design of Eixample is very special. It was planned by a brilliant engineer named Ildefons Cerdà. He created a grid pattern for the streets. This means the streets cross each other at right angles, like a checkerboard.
Why the Grid?
Cerdà designed the grid to make the city better for everyone. He wanted good air flow and sunlight in all buildings. The streets are wide, and many blocks have special corners. These corners are cut off, making octagonal shapes. This design helps traffic flow smoothly. It also creates more space at intersections.
Green Spaces and Community
Cerdà's original plan also included many green spaces. He wanted gardens inside every block. This was to give people places to relax. While not all blocks have gardens today, the idea was to create a healthy city. He also thought about public services. These included markets, hospitals, and schools.
Neighborhoods of Eixample
Eixample is divided into six smaller areas called neighborhoods. Each neighborhood has its own unique feel.
- L'Antiga Esquerra de l'Eixample (Old Left Eixample)
- La Nova Esquerra de l'Eixample (New Left Eixample)
- Dreta de l'Eixample (Right Eixample)
- Fort Pienc
- Sagrada Família
- Sant Antoni
Famous Places in Eixample
Eixample is home to many of Barcelona's most famous landmarks. You can find amazing architecture here.
The Sagrada Família
One of the most famous buildings is the Sagrada Família. It is a huge church designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí. It has been under construction for many years. It is known for its unique and detailed design.
Passeig de Gràcia
Another important street is Passeig de Gràcia. This wide avenue is famous for its beautiful buildings. Many of these were designed by Modernista architects. You can see Gaudí's Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (also known as La Pedrera) here. These buildings have very creative shapes and decorations. Passeig de Gràcia is also a popular place for shopping.
Other Important Buildings
Eixample also has many other interesting places. The Plaça de Catalunya is a large square. It connects Eixample with the old city. The University of Barcelona is also located in this district. It is one of the oldest universities in Spain.
History of Eixample
Barcelona grew very quickly in the 19th century. The old city walls were making it crowded. People needed more space to live and work.
The Cerdà Plan
In 1859, the city held a competition for a new expansion plan. Ildefons Cerdà's plan was chosen. His ideas were very modern for his time. He thought about how cities should work for people. He wanted to make sure everyone had good living conditions.
Building the New City
Construction of Eixample began in the 1860s. It took many years to build. The district became a place for the middle and upper classes. Many beautiful apartment buildings were constructed. These buildings often have grand entrances and detailed facades.
Eixample Today
Today, Eixample is a lively and important part of Barcelona. It is a center for business, shopping, and culture. Many people live and work here. It is also a popular place for tourists. They come to see its unique architecture and famous landmarks. The district continues to be a great example of city planning.
Images for kids
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District hall.
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Original Eixample concept from 1859
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Part of the Eixample and the Sagrada Família, viewed from Montjuïc, June 2006
See also
In Spanish: Distrito del Ensanche para niños
