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Montjuïc saves eight century-old plane trees before the Fira works
Eight historic plane trees have been relocated in Montjuïc to save them before the Fira works. The move, carried out during full vegetative dormancy, seeks to ensure their survival. The process is delicate and success will not be known for years.
The trees, located between the Font Màgica de Montjuïc and the Fundació Mies van der Rohe, have formed part of the landscape since the 1929 International Exposition. They have been moved during vegetative dormancy, the only time of year when a specimen of this size can survive a change of location.
The process requires extreme precision. A large root ball is extracted with the trunk, the roots are protected with natural fibres and metal structures, and the trees are secured with supports to prevent any movement. During the first years, they will receive constant watering to help them adapt to the new surroundings.
Although the plane trees are already showing shoots, experts warn that their real recovery can only be confirmed in two to four years. It will then be known whether they have managed to establish roots successfully in their new location.
Barcelona is attempting to balance renewal and heritage. This type of intervention reflects how urban transformation can coexist with protection of the green environment, although it entails risks and results that are long-term.