Barcelona is seeing more English in its shops, cafes and design stores, and that is prompting concern about the city’s linguistic identity. The issue is not just about language, it is also about who the city is being shaped for.
According to Metrópoli Abierta, some businesses in areas such as La Rambla del Poblenou now operate mainly in English. The article says staff often speak to local customers in English, even when Catalan or Spanish would be more natural.
The piece argues that this is not simply a sign of cosmopolitan life. It says the trend can leave residents feeling pushed out of their own streets, and that older people, local workers and working-class communities may be especially affected. In the article’s view, the result is a city that starts to feel split between short-term visitors and permanent residents.
Barcelona City Council says it tries to maintain the city’s identity. The article also points to the Tour de France, which will start in Barcelona during the first weekend of July, as one example of an event meant to connect with local pride and bring attention to parts of the city that tourists often miss.
The article also says Catalan and Spanish should remain the main languages in Barcelona, despite the city’s international mix. It cites writer Llucia Ramis, who warns that if Barcelona loses its own linguistic character, it risks becoming a weaker version of other global cities.
For more Barcelona coverage, see our Community and Sport pages. You can also read the original report from Metrópoli Abierta.
