The invention and dispute for the heritage in Barcelona: From Born to Born Market Cultural Center

Abstract

The Born Market building in Barcelona has become a heritage of the city since the seventies when government authorities decided to close it down. The building came to be a reason of dispute between neighbors, academics and the local and provincial governments. Social actors used different conceptions of heritage in order to preserve the building and give it various uses. This paper describes the different stages of the conservancy process of the old market. Similarly, the paper analyzes the conflict that arose between the different viewpoints thus showing how multiple perceptions and interpretations can arise around one place. The research techniques used were over 20 semi-structured interviews with neighbours, tradesmen and architects of the vecinity. A hemerographic review and office work were also carried out. Also, systematic observation of the study area was conducted.