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Paral·lel begins its major transformation with new spaces and its own brand

Barcelona City Council has launched a plan to transform Avinguda del Paral·lel and restore its role as a cultural and economic artery. The intervention, with a horizon of 2028, includes urban renovations, new facilities and a strategy to strengthen its identity.

The project includes 22 actions, among them the creation of the “Paralelo” brand and improvements to public spaces with more lighting, green areas, and the renovation of pavements and squares. Key points such as the Drassanes area will also be redeveloped.

One of the most significant changes will be the transformation of the Tres Chimeneas into an economic hub with offices and an emergency coordination centre. This will be accompanied by the reopening of the Teatro Arnau in 2027, after more than a decade closed, as a new cultural landmark for the area.

The plan aims to revitalise the avenue with more artistic and commercial activity and events linked to the city’s calendar, as well as interventions on façades and shops to connect culture and neighbourhood life.

This transformation will directly affect residents, shopkeepers, and visitors. It could revitalise the local economy, improve public spaces, and restore Paralelo’s historic character as a cultural meeting point, although it will also involve construction work and changes to mobility during its development. In the coming years, the progress of these actions will set the pace of change. If deadlines are met, Paralelo could regain its prominence as one of Barcelona’s major cultural hubs.

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