The Tamarita gardens in Barcelona are a real hidden gem. Located in the Sarrià-Sant Gervasi district, these gardens represent a perfect example of how a private space has been transformed into a public heritage. But what makes this place so special? Let’s find out.
A walk through history
To understand the essence of the Tamarita gardens, it is vital to know their origin. Originally, these grounds were part of a stately estate called the Frare Blanc. At the beginning of the 20th century, the Craywinckel family owned this small piece of paradise. However, in a twist of fate, the cotton industrialist Llorenç Mata acquired part of the estate. Later, his nephew Alfredo Mata Julià commissioned the landscaping project to the famous Nicolau Maria Rubió i Tudurí.
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This architect and landscape designer, known for his collaboration in the landscaping of Montjuïc mountain, designed the gardens in 1918. Unfortunately, the gardens faced difficult times after the Civil War, coming to be almost abandoned. However, in 1993, they were handed over to the public, and between 1994 and 1995, Antoni Falcón carried out a thorough restoration. Thanks to this, visitors can now enjoy this marvel rescued from oblivion.
Biodiversity in its purest form
The botanical diversity of the Tamarita gardens is impressive. Walking along its paths, one finds oneself immersed in a world where the plants seem to tell their own story. Myrtle, privet and large laurels add an exotic touch to the landscape. Also noteworthy are the robinias and banana trees that give a robust character to the environment.
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Among the most notable inhabitants of the garden are the yews and bitter orange trees which, together with boxwoods and the unique jacaranda, bring color and fragrance to this urban oasis. Following the path towards the Frare Blanc torrent, we come across cypresses, witch hemp, bamboos and large silver lime trees. Each tree and shrub seems to have been carefully selected to create a perfect balance between nature and design.
Design and landscape: Two worlds in harmony
The design of the Tamarita gardens is not random. It is divided into two very different areas. The first is characterized by its classicism and order. Here, statues and fountains are mixed with hedges and flowerbeds, offering a dreamy atmosphere.
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The other part of the garden is more spontaneous, taking advantage of the passage of the stream to create environments that invite discovery and exploration. This contrast between a looser landscape style and rigorous classicism results in a perfect aesthetic balance.
Cultural heritage on every corner
As one enters the gardens, one comes upon a pond with a fountain that evokes tranquility. From this point, a path leads to several squares around the manor house, a structure designed by Melcior Vinyals and currently housing the Blanquerna Foundation.
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In the main square you can admire sculptures representing different continents. These works of Virginio Arias are another example of the cultural richness of the place. In addition, the fountains adorned with sculpted figures add a touch of fantasy to every corner of the garden.
A refuge in the middle of the city
It is hard to imagine such a serene and majestic space hidden in the bustle of Barcelona. The gardens of La Tamarita are a living testimony to the capacity of transformation and adaptation of spaces. From its origin as a private estate to its current status as a public garden, this corner has managed to preserve its essence over time.
For those looking for a place to disconnect from urban noise and connect with nature and history, the Tamarita Gardens are a must-see destination. Here, every plant, sculpture and fountain tells a story of change, resilience and beauty.
