Barcelona City Council has unveiled a controversial new visual identity that removes all textual references to the municipal government. The €85,000 redesign was presented to journalists on Wednesday morning.
The New Design
Council officials described the simplified logo as a modernisation effort. However, critics immediately questioned the removal of “City Council” from the branding.
The new design features a stylised version of Barcelona’s traditional cross and crown symbols. Additionally, it uses a contemporary colour palette of deep blue and burnt orange.
According to design chief Marta Ribas, the update aims to improve digital visibility. “We needed a more versatile identity system,” she told reporters. “The previous logo was designed for print media.”
The council plans to implement the new branding across all municipal services by 2026. Meanwhile, opposition parties have demanded cost justification for the project. This follows recent housing rehabilitation investments in the city centre.
Political Reaction
Conservative groups have condemned the branding change as unnecessary expenditure. In contrast, the ruling coalition defends it as essential modernisation.
PP spokesperson Carlos Ortega called the redesign “a waste of public money.” He suggested the funds would be better spent on housing initiatives or social services.
The council maintains that the project cost represents value for money. Officials cite long-term savings from simplified digital applications. They also note the previous logo dated from 2004.
Implementation will occur gradually over the next 18 months. Council buildings and vehicles will receive updated signage first. Stationery and digital platforms will follow in phased rollouts.
The controversy reflects wider debates about public spending priorities. Similar branding updates in other European cities have faced comparable scrutiny. Barcelona’s approach will likely influence other Spanish municipalities considering visual identity changes.
Council officials anticipate completing the transition by late 2026. They emphasise that no additional funding beyond the initial €85,000 will be required. The project team will monitor public reception through citizen feedback channels.
Join our WhatsApp broadcast channel to get all of the news delivered to you
