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Hidden Modernism: Bourgeoisie, Slavery and the Birth of the Eixample

Did you know that behind Barcelona's modernist facades lie stories of wealth, power, colonies, and a completely new city?

On this tour we will explore the most authentic Eixample to discover how Barcelona went from being a medieval city enclosed within walls to becoming one of the most modern capitals in Europe.

We'll stroll through hidden gardens, secret passageways, old Modernist shops, and some of the most spectacular houses on Passeig de Gràcia. We'll talk about Antoni Gaudí and Modernism, but also about the Catalan bourgeoisie, the Cerdà Plan, and the lesser-known history of slavery that helped build this new Barcelona.

During the tour we will see unique places such as:
* the Passatge Permanyer,
* the Calvet House,
* the Torre de les Aigües,
* and the famous Apple of Discord.

A dynamic, visual tour full of surprising stories to understand the elegant, ambitious, and contradictory Barcelona that emerged in the 19th century. Are you going to miss it?

The tour lasts 1 hour and 45 minutes
Available in Spanish

Esther
Guide: Esther
PRO
Guiding since 2026
Hi, I'm Esther 😊, a painter, interior designer, and official explorer of Barcelona's soulful corners. 🎨🏛️ I experience art, design, and culture not just as disciplines, but as ways of seeing the world… and this city is undoubtedly one of my greatest sources of inspiration. Besides telling you what happened in Barcelona, ​​I love explaining why: what motivated its artists, how its inhabitants thought, and why this city is so intense, contradictory, and fascinating. My tours aren't lectures (don't worry 😄), they're walks full of stories, curious details, unexpected anecdotes, and a few laughs. Traveling has always been part of my education. I've explored Italy, Austria, Germany, the UK, France, and Belgium; I've been amazed by Egypt and South Africa; I've learned a lot from Benin and Togo; and I've crossed the pond to the United States, as well as immersing myself in powerful cultures like China and India, among other destinations. All of this has honed my perspective and my storytelling: I compare, connect, and translate cultures so that Barcelona takes on even greater meaning. If you enjoy discovering a city beyond the postcard image, understanding its character, seeing the buildings with fresh eyes, and feeling like someone is sharing their story with you, like a friend… then let's walk together. Barcelona has so much to say, and I'd be delighted to translate it for you.

7 stops
1.8 km walking
1 hour and 45 minutes
Meeting point:Punto de encuentroI'll be in Plaza Urquinaona, in front of the fountain/statue called El nen del càntir. I'll be waiting for you with a smile and my red Guruwalk ID around my neck. 😊Open in Google Maps
1
Outside visit
Casa Calvet
2
Outside visit
Pasaje de Permanyer
3
Outside visit
Basílica de la Purísima Concepción

Hidden Modernism: Bourgeoisie, Slavery and the Birth of the Eixample



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Free cancellation and booking
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