The name of this neighborhood derives from “petras albas” or white stones, documented in the year 986, and referring to the light color of the rocks in the area was taken by the estate that existed in the area, from which the current name of the neighborhood comes from. Queen Elisenda de Montcada chose this site for the founding of the Clarissan Monastery in 1327.

Pedralbes emerged as an inhabited nucleus in the second half of the 19th century. At that time, it was a popular destination for Barcelona inhabitants to go on excursions to visit the monastery, and to buy cheese.

In 1866, a few homes and one street – Panamá Street – already existed. However, the area contained rural properties of some of the Barcelonian wealthy families, who gradually began to build notorious mansions for themselves in the area.

The urbanization of process in this area began when one of the great wealthy property owners, the Güell family, prompted a series of urban developments on their properties, such as San Pedro Mártir (1918-1927), Güell (1932) and Barcelonesa.

Today Pedralbes is the most exclusive residential neighborhood in Barcelona, ​​with large homes and mansions, both old and new, surrounded by parks, gardens and exclusive apartment buildings.

The neighborhood includes Cervantes Park, the Bruc Military Headquarters, the Royal Palace of Pedralbes & Gardens, and the North Campus of the Zona Universitaria.

Points of Interest & Landmarks

• Santa María de Pedralbes Monastery: founded by Queen Elisenda de Montcada between 1322 and 1327; one of the most important Catalan Gothic buildings. (C/ Baixada del Monestir 9)

• Pedralbes Royal Palace: palace originating from the 18th century Can Feliú estate. The property was bought by businessman Eusebi Güell in 1862, who built a small palace surrounded by magnificent gardens. In 1918, Güell gave the property to the Crown to show his gratitude to the king for having given Güell the title of Count. The home was remodeled to be a royal palace in 1924. (Av. Diagonal 686)