6.5 The Internal Structure of Cities

Barcelona's City Structure Described Using the Cocentric Zone Model

• CBD of Barcelona: Barcelona's CBD is located in the historic core of the city, often referred to as Ciutat Vella. This area is characterized by high land values, dense commercial activity, and tall buildings. It serves as the economic and cultural heart of the city, housing major businesses, government offices, and cultural institutions.

• Zone of Transition in Barcelona: Surrounding the CBD, there is a zone of transition which historically housed industrial activities but has now transformed into a mix of commercial, residential, and light industrial uses. This area may have older housing stock, mixed-income neighborhoods, and pockets of gentrification.

• Inner Residential Zone in Barcelona: Further out from the CBD, there is an inner residential zone where the housing tends to be older and more densely packed. This area often consists of working-class neighborhoods with a mix of residential and commercial uses. Examples include areas like Eixample and Gràcia.

• Outer Residential Zone in Barcelona: Beyond the inner residential zone lies the outer residential zone, characterized by newer housing developments, suburban neighborhoods, and lower population density. These areas often have better infrastructure, green spaces, and amenities compared to the inner city.

• Commuter Zone of Barcelona: The outermost ring of the concentric zone model represents the commuter zone, where residents typically live in suburban or rural areas outside the city limits but commute into Barcelona for work or other activities.