Economic study in a prestigious area of Barcelona.

Barcelona - Zona Alta - Pedralbes

Situated in western Barcelona, Pedralbes is an upmarket district of the city. It has plenty of luxurious villas and a more spacious feel than much of the rest of the built-up areas of Barcelona. Pedralbes is known for its formal gardens, known as the Parc de Pedralbes. Decked out with formal planting, it is one of the most tranquil spaces in the whole of the metropolis. Visitors also come for the Monastery of Pedralbes, which is something of a Gothic complex featuring its own cobbled streets. The famous architecture of Antoni Gaudí can be found in Pedralbes, too.

Because Barcelona's wealthier citizens used to own property in Pedralbes from the middle of the twentieth century, the district gained a reputation for smart living. This is still very much in evidence with more recent developments which tend to have an accent on luxury living. Many properties in the area feature manicured gardens, pools and off-street parking – something which you won't find in a number of other areas in the city.

Barcelona is a thriving city with its own cultural identity which marks it out from many others in Spain. It also has some very well regarded schools, especially in the vicinity of Pedralbes, which makes the area one worth considering living in as well as investing in as a location for a holiday home.