A virtual visit to the Ribera neighbourhood of 1700
Every Friday in August you can use a geolocalised device to explore Barcelona's Born neighbourhood as it was in the 18th century.
The archaeological remains that were found under the current-day Born Market, which can now be visited on a daily basis, correspond to the layout of the Ribera neighbourhood during the 18th century. King Philip V ordered the demolition of much of this end of the neighbourhood for the construction of the Ciutadella fortress, and the remains we see today is all that's left of those obliterated streets. These remains have not been completely excavated but if we enter the Born and Ribera neighbourhood we can see that many of the houses that remain standing date from the 18th century; they may not be the originals, but they did take advantage of the foundations. That means that in this spot we can see how an old city shares space with a lost city. But now, if you want to, you can explore it in greater depth thanks to a special route designed by Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria.
This geolocalised walk around the ancient and current layout of the Ribera with the help of an electronic device allows you to explore its streets and see 3D reproductions that identify the buildings you encounter on the route, offering a way to travel back in time to the 1700s.
You'll find more information on the Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria website. Registration is required.