In the heart of Barcelona’s old town, the historic Palau de Mar del Port Vell shines with a new facade lighting. This revitalizes its splendor and highlights its importance within the Catalan port heritage. This emblematic 19th century building is part of the recent projects to improve the port’s historical heritage, carried out to celebrate the America’s Cup. The president of the Port of Barcelona, Lluís Salvadó, announced this significant change during the ceremony to switch on the new lights of the Palau de Mar, accompanied by the director of Port Vell, David Pino, and the manager of Palau de Mar, Sergi Douèzi.
Palau de Mar illuminated
Salvadó pointed out that the new lighting of the Palau de Mar is part of a series of similar renovations to other historic buildings in the port, such as the Portal de la Pau and the sheds on the East Quay. These improvements seek not only to beautify the streetscape, but also to preserve and enhance the architectural and cultural legacy of the Port of Barcelona. “The Palau de Mar is one of the jewels in the port’s crown,” said Salvadó, underlining its relevance as the headquarters of the technological and digital ecosystem “Tech Barcelona-Pier 01” and the Museu d’Història de Catalunya. He also highlighted the high quality gastronomic offer of the palace, closely linked to the traditional neighborhood of Barceloneta. He assured that this adds a differential value to the complex.
The new lighting, based exclusively on LED technology, not only enhances the architectural features of the Palau de Mar, but also significantly reduces energy consumption. In this way, it contributes to the reduction of the building’s carbon footprint. LEDs have been installed in the 122 windows and 6 oculi on the facades, in the 28 pilasters and in the 16 arcades. Some of these LED lights consume just four watts, which represents a considerable reduction in electricity consumption and reinforces the port’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Building with history
The Palau de Mar, originally known as the Almacenes Generales de Comercio of the port of Barcelona, was built in 1881 and is the most representative historical building of the Catalan port expansion that began in the second half of the 19th century. Its recovery began with the preparations for the 1992 Olympic Games, and since then it has served as an important cultural and technological center. The new lighting not only enhances its architectural beauty, but also underlines its dynamic role in the present.
This lighting project is part of the agreements for the five-year extension of the Palau de Mar’s concession period. The 100,000 euro investment has been financed by SCCE (Sociedad de Centros Comerciales de España), the company in charge of managing the historic building. This financial support has been crucial to implement a modern and efficient solution that respects and enhances the historical legacy of the Palau de Mar.
The implementation of the new LED lighting at the Palau de Mar has brought multiple benefits. Firstly, a more attractive and prominent presentation of the building at night has been achieved. This makes it an even more striking landmark within the urban landscape of Port Vell. In addition, the energy efficiency of the LEDs reduces operating costs. In addition, it also aligns the port with environmental sustainability goals, minimizing its ecological impact.
The installed LEDs not only illuminate efficiently, but also allow for more precise control of the light, adapting to the specific needs of each section of the building. This detailed approach ensures that each architectural element of the Palau de Mar is appropriately accentuated, from the imposing pilasters to the delicate arcades, creating a visual spectacle that honors its original design.
Renewed patrimony
The renovation of the Palau de Mar’s lighting is part of the broader context of the America’s Cup celebrations. There, Barcelona stands out not only for its sporting events, but also for its commitment to the preservation and enhancement of its historical heritage. The illumination of the facade of the Palau de Mar is a symbol of the continuous effort to keep alive the architectural legacy of the city. This by integrating modernity and tradition.
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