Terrassa: A City Shaping Its Future Through Culture, Innovation, and Sustainability
Terrassa, a city with a deep-rooted industrial history, is undergoing a significant transformation, becoming a prominent cultural and infrastructural hub in Catalonia. This evolution is driven by various innovative initiatives, underpinned by a commitment to sustainability, cultural enrichment, and public health.
Cultural Exhibitions and Events: A New Era of Artistic Expression
Terrassa is establishing itself as a beacon of contemporary culture, hosting events that challenge and expand the boundaries of artistic expression. TNT – Terrassa Noves Tendències is a key example, embodying the city’s dynamic cultural landscape. This festival, organized by Terrassa’s Culture Service, supports new artistic formats and explores the intersection of art and the fast-paced, complex world we live in. TNT is known for its provocative and experimental nature, aiming to foster a deep engagement with contemporary issues through art. The festival collaborates with local institutions, educational centers, and the community, embedding itself in the fabric of the city.
Another significant event is Manifesta 15, a traveling European biennial that will have its 2024 edition in Barcelona and the surrounding metropolitan area, including Terrassa. This event, originating in the early 1990s, was conceived in response to the political, economic, and social changes post-Cold War, focusing on the dialogue between art and society. Terrassa will host the “Focus Week” from September 24 to 29, a period during which the city’s local art scene will be showcased in various prominent historical and industrial venues. This event underscores Terrassa’s role in decentralizing cultural infrastructure from Barcelona, promoting positive social change through art, urbanism, design, and architecture.
Looking ahead, CataLANDance, an international dance platform, will debut in Terrassa from November 26 to 29, 2025. This biennial event, organized by the Catalan Government and Terrassa City Council, serves as a key meeting place for dance professionals. It fosters collaborations and promotes Catalan dance internationally. Terrassa’s strong dance tradition, backed by local schools and cultural institutions, makes the city a vital reference for dance in Catalonia. The event will use diverse venues, from modernist architecture to industrial heritage sites, providing unique settings for performances.
Urban Infrastructure Projects in Terrassa: Transforming Spaces, Envisioning the Future
Terrassa is not only a cultural hub but also a city committed to sustainable urban development. Several projects highlight the city’s dedication to transforming its urban spaces in innovative ways.
Vapor Prodis, a former textile factory, is now a multifunctional facility offering services by the Prodis Foundation. It includes hospitality training, an occupational center, and a center for people with cerebral palsy. The 4,500 square meter facility also features arts spaces, a function room, a shop, and a market area. It serves the local community while preserving the site’s historical character.
Another noteworthy project is the Masia Els Bellots, a 16th-century farmhouse that has undergone significant rehabilitation. With an investment of €873,000, the renovation preserved original elements of the building while updating it to serve modern needs. The farmhouse now hosts the municipal Industrial Promotion service, offering meeting and conference rooms for businesses and a dedicated service for attracting and retaining industrial investors. This project reflects Terrassa’s commitment to blending historical preservation with contemporary functionality.
Perhaps the most ambitious urban project is the redevelopment of the AEG Factory site. This ACCIONA-led initiative aims to revitalize 60,000 square meters of urban space, blending residential, commercial, educational, and cultural uses. The project includes 785 homes, with 230 offering public protection, and facilities like a new school and relocating the Institute of Theatre to a factory warehouse. Plans also include senior and student residences. Sustainability and eco-efficiency are central, focusing on minimizing waste, emissions, and environmental impact while creating a vibrant, multifaceted urban area. The development seeks to create a dynamic and sustainable community that meets diverse needs.
Public Health Campaigns: Promoting Wellness and Community Engagement
Terrassa’s commitment to its residents’ well-being is evident in its public health initiatives. The Mou-te (Move Yourself) program, promoted by Health, Sports, and Senior Citizens services, encourages physical activity among citizens, especially seniors. It offers various free group activities tailored to different needs, including Nordic walking, Chi Kung, gymnastics in urban parks, healthy walks, cycling, and dance. The program aims to promote well-being and active lifestyles for all participants. By providing diverse options, it ensures that everyone can find an activity suited to their interests and abilities, fostering a healthier community.
The activities, mostly held outdoors, aim to foster a healthy, active lifestyle while building community connections.
In addition, the Red Cross blood donation campaign, supported by the Terrassa City Council and the Blood and Tissue Bank, recently achieved significant success. The campaign aimed to collect 1,000 blood donations in one month but surpassed expectations by securing 1,200 donations. The campaign, which culminated on World Blood Donor Day, June 14, highlights the strong civic engagement of Terrassa’s residents and the city’s active role in promoting public health.
Voices of Terrassa: Rosa Boladeras, Anna Farras Sanz, and Patricia Abad Martínez
Terrassa’s transformation into a cultural and urban hub is led by key figures like Rosa Boladeras, Anna Farras Sanz, and Patricia Abad Martínez. These women have significantly influenced the city’s future, each making unique contributions to its cultural, urban, and social landscape. Their combined efforts are crucial in driving Terrassa’s progress, ensuring it becomes a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive city. Through their leadership, they are actively shaping the city’s identity and preparing it for future challenges. Terrassa’s growth reflects their commitment to enhancing both the community and the urban environment.
Rosa Boladeras
he Deputy Mayor for Culture, has been at the forefront of Terrassa’s cultural evolution. Her leadership has been pivotal in integrating major events like TNT and Manifesta into the city’s cultural fabric. “Through Manifesta, we are not only decentralizing culture from Barcelona but also fostering a dialogue that can lead to tangible social change,” she emphasizes, highlighting the broader impact these cultural initiatives are expected to have on the community.
Anna Farras Sanz
The Head of European and International Affairs at the Ajuntament de Terrassa, brings a wealth of experience in cultural management and international relations to the table. Her work ensures that Terrassa remains connected to broader European networks, enhancing the city’s influence and participation in international dialogues. Reflecting on the city’s cultural trajectory, Anna notes, “The future of Terrassa is being written today, in the art we create, the spaces we transform, and the health we promote. It’s a future that’s as dynamic and diverse as the city itself.”
Discover The Heritage of Terrassa!
Read more about Terrassa’s Urban Innovations and Policies with Rosa Boladeras and Anna Farras!
Patricia Abad Martínez
A Holistic Consultant, has played a crucial role in the redevelopment and sustainable transformation of Terrassa’s urban spaces. Her involvement in Catalan projects underscores her commitment to creating functional, sustainable environments that respect the city’s historical heritage.
They are building a new urban model in Terrassa, one that prioritizes environmental benefits and minimizes waste and emissions, all while providing much-needed housing and community services.
A Future Built on Vision and Collaboration
These people represent the driving force behind Terrassa’s ongoing transformation. Their efforts in culture, urban planning, and international relations are shaping Terrassa as a cultural and sustainable city. They ensure the city stays vibrant, inclusive, and forward-looking, prepared for future challenges and opportunities.
Terrassa’s transformation showcases the impact of visionary leadership and collaboration. The city’s evolution, driven by cultural initiatives and innovative urban projects, sets a benchmark for honoring heritage while embracing the future. Terrassa is not just adapting to change but actively shaping it, ensuring a sustainable, inclusive future for all residents.
Sources:
- TNT – Terrassa Noves Tendències
- Manifesta (15th Edition)
- Vapor Prodis