The Barcelona Ombudsman has urged the city council, specifically the Ciutat Vella district, to reinforce cleaning and maintenance at the Rubió i Lluch gardens. These historic gardens are located within the former Hospital de la Santa Creu in the Raval neighbourhood. The Ombudsman's request follows its detection of "an evident state of neglect, dirt, and degradation" within the space. This intervention stems from a neighbourhood complaint regarding the gardens' abandonment.
The Ombudsman launched an investigation after receiving the complaint. During a site visit, officials confirmed "significant deficiencies" in the space's conservation. This warning comes after years of accumulating complaints about the gardens' progressive degradation. Residents frequently reported rubbish, syringes, and human waste. The Ombudsman acknowledges the district's efforts to manage a socially complex area. However, it believes further steps are necessary.
Calls for Enhanced Maintenance and Social Support
The Ombudsman proposes intensifying cleaning, disinfection, and general care tasks. This will ensure the grounds are in better condition for public use. Additionally, the body suggests implementing a specific preventive conservation programme for the heritage complex. This aims to protect its architectural elements. It will also prevent further deterioration. The Rubió i Lluch gardens are part of a site. This site is declared a National Cultural Heritage asset (BCIN). This designation mandates its priority conservation by the city council.
Another key aspect highlighted by the Ombudsman is the need to strengthen social intervention in the area. It calls for greater coordination among municipal social services. These services should address the needs of homeless individuals who frequent these gardens. The Ciutat Vella district is home to over 100,000 residents. Improving these public spaces is crucial for local quality of life.
Historic Site Faces Modern Challenges
The city council previously attempted to reactivate public use of the grounds last September. It launched the "Llegim al jardí" (Let's Read in the Garden) project. This initiative aimed to transform the space into an open-air reading area. It featured tables, chairs, magazine and newspaper consultation, book exchanges, and reading groups. The goal was to encourage healthier uses of the garden. However, the Ombudsman regrets that "the space continues to be in the same state of neglect."
The former Hospital de la Santa Creu began construction in 1401. King Martin the Humane initiated this project. It operated for over five centuries. It closed in 1926 when healthcare activities moved to the current Hospital de Sant Pau. Over centuries, the complex became a benchmark of Catalan civil Gothic architecture. Today, its buildings house premier cultural institutions. These include the National Library of Catalonia and the Institute of Catalan Studies. The degradation of its gardens therefore impacts a significant historical and cultural landmark in Barcelona.
The Ombudsman's recommendations underscore the urgent need for comprehensive action. This includes both physical improvements and social support. Such measures are vital to restore the Rubió i Lluch gardens. They must become a safe and welcoming public space. This honours its rich history and cultural importance for Barcelona residents and visitors alike.
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Originally published by El Periódico Barcelona. Read original article.
