Barcelona's Bold Move: A 6,200sqm Selfie Zone to Ease Tourist Chaos!
Barcelona is creating a massive 6,200sqm selfie zone by the Sagrada Familia to soothe locals tired of tourist congestion, a revolutionary step against overtourism.
Barcelona, a city renowned for its iconic architecture and bustling streets, is taking a groundbreaking step towards addressing the overwhelming influx of tourists. In a bold move, the city plans to create a 6,200-square-meter space dedicated entirely to tourists eager to capture the perfect selfie, potentially alleviating the disturbance caused to locals.
Tourist Traffic Jam: A Gaudí Dilemma
Every year, millions of tourists flock to the Sagrada Familia, one of Spain’s most visited sites. The rush to get an Instagram-worthy shot has led to congested pavements and even residents’ frustration. As one of the city’s most popular landmarks, managing the sheer number of visitors around Gaudí’s masterpiece has become essential.
A Dedicated Selfie Zone: More Than Just Pictures
The new initiative aims to resolve the congestion near the basilica by providing a designated area between the Nativity façade and Plaça Gaudí. According to Daily Express, this clever move will not only ensure smoother pedestrian traffic but also offer tourists a dedicated spot for their cherished snapshots.
A €2.7 Million Dream for Locals and Tourists Alike
Set to begin after the summer, this €2.7 million project is part of a broader plan to enhance the infrastructure around the Sagrada Familia. Expected to complete by April 2026, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of Gaudí’s death, it’s a harmonious blend of celebration and innovation.
A City Against Overtourism
Barcelona is no stranger to the challenges of overtourism. In 2024, the city launched an impressive €44 million strategy targeting major hotspots. From increased policing to strategic rebranding efforts with the slogan “This is Barcelona,” the city is reinventing its approach to tourism, emphasizing sustainability and quality over quantity.
Future-Proofing Barcelona
With ambitious plans like eliminating short-term tourist rentals by 2028 and regulating cruise ship arrivals, Barcelona is paving the way for balancing tourism with the everyday life of its residents. Mayor Jaume Collboni’s approach underscores that tourism should enhance, not overwhelm, this vibrant city’s fabric.
This innovative selfie zone becomes more than just a tourist draw; it symbolizes a city striving for harmony between its historical grandeur and modern pressures. As Barcelona ushers in this new chapter, it suggests a blueprint for other tourist-laden cities to follow, proving that thoughtful planning can indeed reshape urban life.