A tale of old and new: Uncovering the fascinating background of the Tower of Girona

Introduction

Have you ever wondered about the history behind the buildings that surround it? The Torre Girona is a neoclassical tower from the 19th century that today houses the rectory of the Polytechnic University. It has one of the most powerful computers in Europe. The Girona family was part of a bourgeois oligarchy of rural origin that later diversified into various businesses. In 1857 they built the current Torre Girona.

The Girona family: The origins of the family and its rise to power

You may be wondering about the origins of the Girona Tower and its eponymous family. Let's take a look.

The Girona family was originally from a small town in the Catalan countryside. It was a bourgeois family of farmers who ended up dedicating themselves to trade and industry. At the beginning of the 19th century they bought land in Les Corts, a neighborhood with a temperate climate and abundant water. In 1857, they built the Girona Tower as we know it today.

The construction of the Tower of Girona: 19th century architecture

Since then, the Girona Tower has not gone unnoticed on the Barcelona skyline. It is an impressive neoclassical tower 30 meters high, built in the 19th century by the Girona family.

The Gironas were an influential bourgeois family of rural descent who passed through commerce and industry. Later, they started various businesses. In 1857, they built the current Torre de Girona in Les Corts, an area that enjoyed a good climate and plenty of water.

The tower has one of the most powerful computers in Europe and is the headquarters of the rectorate of the Polytechnic University.

What was and what is: How the Tower has evolved over time

The Tower of Girona has a fascinating history that is still visible in its design today. It was built in the 19th century as a neoclassical tower, and it still stands as one of the most impressive buildings in the city.

But what is perhaps even more interesting is the evolution of the Tower over time. Originally, it was built by a bourgeois family called the Gironas. They were of rural origin, but ended up making their fortunes in trade and industry. In 1857 they decided to build the Tower as a symbol of their success.

Since then, the Tower has undergone many changes. It has been used as a military fortress, prison, and even an observatory. Currently, it houses the rectory of the Polytechnic University of Catalonia, as well as the Barcelona Supercomputing Center, a supercomputer called Mare Nostrum, located in the former chapel of the residence, which is characterized for being one of the most powerful supercomputers in all of Europe. the "Mare Nostrum".

Life in the Torre Girona: Life within the walls of this historic tower

The Girona Tower has become one of the most fascinating places in the city of Barcelona. This impressive neoclassical tower has been home to a long and varied series of people throughout the 19th century; from wealthy merchants to lawyers and artists.

In the Torre Girona, the residents spent their afternoons playing the guitar or painting in the spacious halls, or chatting with their friends. The gardens were a place where you could enjoy the sun, talk about the news of the day while walking among the flowers. The Tower was also the home of private detectives investigating political and financial affairs.

Over the last century, the tower has witnessed historical events such as the overthrow of the monarchical government in 1934, the republican provision during the Spanish Civil War and many other notable occasions. Today it is the headquarters of the rectorate of the Polytechnic University and houses one of the most powerful supercomputers in Europe.

The Girona Tower today: Exploring the modern conveniences that have been added to this grand old building

The Girona Tower is full of surprises! Although it is an old neoclassical construction, there are also many modern additions. This tower now contains the headquarters of the rectorate of the Polytechnic University, as well as one of the best computers on the continent, the "MareNostrum".

And to maintain the traditional design without sacrificing modern comfort, the tower incorporated elevators. In addition, there are solar panels installed on the roofs to help with modern energy needs.

The original Gironas might never have anticipated all these technological innovations on their property that today functions as a great balance between the past and the present. We hope you have fun exploring from the old to the new!

Visiting the Girona Tower: Tips and tricks for visiting this majestic monument

If you are thinking of visiting the Girona Tower, there are a few things to keep in mind. The first thing is that the tower is open to the public only on weekends in the morning (from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.). Another important thing is to wear a coat, since a low temperature is maintained inside to preserve the integrity of the objects. If you want to visit the most powerful computer room in Europe, you will have to book your visit in advance.

In addition to the interior, you can tour its patios and terraces full of history and enjoy the panorama that Les Corts offers. I recommend you bring some sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun and don't forget your camera to take photos from the top of the central tower.

So if you want to know one of the most beautiful and emblematic monuments of Barcelona, ​​do not hesitate to include this destination in your trip to discover the fascinating history behind the old castle. You won't regret it!

Conclusion

The history of the Tower of Girona is a history of the old and the new, of tradition and modernity. The tower, built in the 19th century, is today the headquarters of the rectorate of the Polytechnic University and houses one of the most powerful computers in Europe, the "MareNostrum". The Gironas, who built the tower, were a bourgeois family of rural descent who later dedicated themselves to various businesses. At the beginning of the 19th century, the Gironas bought land in Les Corts, a neighborhood that enjoyed a pleasant climate and abundant water. In 1857, they built the current Tower of Girona.