Rodés bookshop to sell off its books before closing due to rent

The business on Banys Nous cannot afford the rent being demanded by the property owner.

Maria Carme Rodés, granddaughter of the founder, has tried to negotiate the continuation of the bookshop with the property owner. The lease is coming to an end and the proposed terms make it impossible to keep the business going.

The increase being asked is four or five times more than what Rodés can manage through the sale of second-hand books and collectors’ items.

A century of old books in Ciutat Vella

Founded in the 1920s, the bookshop has more than a century of history. It has survived various urban and commercial changes in the district.

Its wooden shelves hold out-of-print editions, old engravings, historic postcards and unique documents. Rodés has been a reference point for locals and bibliophiles from all over the world.

Another business disappears from the Gòtic

The closure adds to the disappearance of other unique establishments in the district, in a context marked by tourist pressure and investment funds. The area has gradually given way to franchises and souvenir shops with less connection to local residents.

Heritage organisations and the sector regret that commercial and heritage protection measures come too late or are limited to preserving the furniture and the façade. In this way, elements of the premises can be protected while the economic activity that gave them meaning disappears.

The transformation of Barcelona also affects other aspects of its streets, as seen in the news about urban lighting. At Rodés, the next step announced is to sell off the stock to empty the premises before the final closure.