Can Barrera

Can Barrera is a historic masia — a traditional Catalan farmhouse — in Teià, a small town in the Maresme region just a short drive northeast of Barcelona. It sits near the corner of Carrer Berenguer Raudors and Carrer del Trull, in a quiet residential pocket of town well off the main coastal tourist route, making it a rewarding stop for anyone interested in genuine rural Catalan architecture away from the crowds.

What will you see there?

The oldest parts of the structure date back to the 14th century, with a documented origin around 1333, when the property belonged to the Marquès family. The building grew in stages over the centuries: an adjoining section was added in 1704, and a neoclassical portico was built in 1846, giving the facade the stately look it has today. An inscription from a later renovation also points to further work carried out around 1816–1826.

The layout is rectangular, with a ground floor and two upper stories, topped by a single-pitched roof. A lookout tower rises at the rear of the building, and the window openings are framed in stone, with decorative terracotta panels set between them on the facade. This mix of a medieval core with later classical additions makes Can Barrera a clear, readable example of how Catalan farmhouse architecture evolved over several centuries.

The farmhouse has belonged to the Barrera family since 1700, which is where its current name comes from — before that, for nearly four centuries, it was owned by the Botey family. That long line of ownership is preserved in the farmhouse's family archive, now kept at the Can Llaurador library in Teià.

How do you get there?

Teià sits in the Maresme region, well connected to Barcelona. Driving is the easiest option, since the town is close to the coastal motorway and Can Barrera stands within the built-up part of town rather than down a rural track. Alternatively, take a regional train to nearby Masnou or Vilassar de Mar, then a short local bus or taxi ride into central Teià. The building itself is privately owned and still used for residential and agricultural purposes, so interior visits aren't generally possible — but the facade and surrounding streets of the old town are worth a walk.

When should you visit?

Maresme has a mild Mediterranean climate, so Can Barrera can be visited year-round. Spring and early autumn bring the most comfortable temperatures and show off the surrounding hills of vineyards and orchards at their best. In summer, pair a visit with time on the nearby Maresme beaches, and if your trip lines up with a local festival — such as Remor, when the farmhouse's courtyard (era) has hosted concerts — the town takes on a lively, festive atmosphere.

Why stop in Teià?

Beyond Can Barrera itself, Teià offers the relaxed feel of a Catalan village with sea views, vineyards, and traditional lanes. It makes a pleasant stop on a route linking several local buildings listed in Catalonia's architectural heritage inventory, well away from the busier coastal attractions.

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit the inside of Can Barrera? No — the building is privately owned and still used as a residence and working farmhouse, so interior visits aren't generally available. You can view the facade and grounds from outside.

How old is the building? Its oldest parts date to the 14th century (around 1333), though the current appearance comes largely from expansions in 1704 and 1846, including the addition of a neoclassical portico.

Where does the name Can Barrera come from? From the Barrera family, who took over the property in 1700 from the previous owners, the Botey family, who had held it since roughly 1333.

Are there events held at Can Barrera? Yes — the farmhouse's courtyard (era) is occasionally used for concerts and cultural events, including performances tied to the local Remor festival.