The toponym Petras Albas or white stones, documented in the year 986 and referring to the color of the rocks, was taken from the estate that occupied the area, from which the current name of the neighborhood derives. Queen Elisenda de Montcada founded the Monastery of the Clarisses in 1327.
Pedralbes, as a inhabited neighborhood, is a nucleus emerged in the second half of the 19th century. At that time, it was popular as an excursion spot to visit the monastery and buy cottage cheese.
By 1866, there were already some houses and a street named Panama. However, it was an area of rural properties owned by important Barcelona families, who gradually built notable mansions for their residence.
One of the major landowners was the wealthy Güell family, who promoted a series of urban developments on their properties, such as San Pedro Mártir (1918-1927), Güell (190-32), and La Barcelonesa.
Today, Pedralbes is the most exclusive residential neighborhood in Barcelona, with large mansions, both old and new, surrounded by gardens and exclusive apartment buildings.
The neighborhood features the large Cervantes Park, the Military Barracks of Bruc, the gardens and the Royal Palace of Pedralbes, as well as the North Campus of the University Zone.
Points of Interest and References:
- Santa Maria 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)
- Royal Palace of Pedralbes: palace originating from the Can Feliu estate of the 18th century. The property was acquired by Eusebi Güell, a businessman, in 1862, who built a small palace surrounded by beautiful gardens. In 1918, Güell gave the property to the Crown to show his gratitude to the King for granting Güell the title of Count. The home was remodeled to become the Royal Palace in 1924. (Av. Diagonal 686)