Parc de la Marquesa

Parc de la Marquesa is a small municipal park in L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, tucked into the Collblanc neighborhood in the city's second district. It's a compact green pocket inside the dense urban fabric of the Barcelona metropolitan area — a spot locals turn to for shade, a bench, and a short break from city traffic.

How do you get there?

L'Hospitalet de Llobregat borders Barcelona directly, and the Collblanc district is well served by metro, with L1 and L5 stations only a few minutes' walk from the park. From central Barcelona, the trip typically takes no more than 20–25 minutes. The park has no dedicated visitor parking, so public transport or a bike from the city's shared-bike network is the more practical option.

Where does the name come from, and what's the history?

The land the park now occupies was once privately owned. It belonged to Josep Farnés, a jeweler, and later to his widow, Eugènia Casanovas i Amat. Although she held no actual noble title, locals referred to her as "la Marquesa" — and that nickname is the origin of the park's name today.

In 1978, following a request from the Collblanc-la Torrassa neighborhood association, the L'Hospitalet city council purchased the plot and opened it to the public. At the time, the neighborhood had almost no green space, so the new roughly 6,500 m² park quickly became a local landmark. After a major renovation completed in January 2007, the park's surface area nearly doubled, growing to about 13,772 m².

What is there to see?

The park's main historical feature is a building known as Torre Barrina. During the Spanish Civil War, on July 27, 1936, the tower was burned down; it was later rebuilt and now stands as a distinctive reminder of the site's turbulent past. Beyond its historical interest, the park offers walking paths, family-friendly green areas, and sports facilities used regularly by neighborhood residents.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons to visit, when temperatures around Barcelona are mild and the greenery looks its best. In summer, mornings or late afternoons are the better choice, avoiding the peak heat typical of Catalan summers. The park has a local, family-oriented character, so weekdays tend to be quieter, while weekends see more residents using it for gatherings and sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Parc de la Marquesa suitable for children? Yes, it has a family-friendly layout with green areas for rest and open space for outdoor activity, making it a good stop for a walk with kids.

How long does a visit take? Given its small size (just under 1.4 hectares), walking the whole park, including a look at Torre Barrina, usually takes about 20–30 minutes.

Is there an entrance fee? No, it's a public municipal park, free to enter year-round.

What is Torre Barrina? It's the historic building on the park grounds, linked to the plot's former owners — burned down during the Spanish Civil War and later rebuilt.