Parc de Can Solei i Ca l'Arnús

Parc de Can Solei i Ca l'Arnús, also known in the local language as Parque de Can Solei y Can el Arnús, is the crown jewel of Badalona’s green spaces. Spanning a vast 10.8 hectares, this park is a sanctuary of history, nature, and leisure. Nestled in the Casagemes neighborhood, it is considered the true green lung of Badalona, with its historical significance, diverse landscapes, and rich flora and fauna. The park is so cherished that it forms part of the metropolitan parks network.

The History of Parc de Can Solei i Ca l'Arnús

The origins of Parc de Can Solei i Ca l'Arnús date back to the 16th century with the establishment of an agricultural estate known as Mas Solei. In the 19th century, the prominent banker and philanthropist Evaristo Arnús acquired a significant portion of the estate. Arnús transformed it into a summer residence, complete with a romantic garden and a self-sustaining orchard. His son, Emilio Arnús, further embellished the property by adding a grand staircase to the manor and constructing a castle-like tower in the middle of a lake, using special stones imported from Belgium.

During the Spanish Civil War, both estates were seized and opened to the public, marking the beginning of their transformation into public parks. The properties were later returned to their original owners, but by the 1970s, Can Solei was expropriated and eventually opened to the public in 1984. Ca l'Arnús followed suit in the 1990s, and by 2007, the two parks were symbolically united through a connecting gate, creating the expansive and unified Parc de Can Solei i Ca l'Arnús we know today.

Exploring Parc de Can Solei

The Can Solei section of the park is a testament to 19th-century landscape architecture. The gardens here are a delightful blend of shaded, intimate spaces and sunlit open areas. You can wander through sandy pathways lined with ancient plane trees, discover hidden corners adorned with ivy, and marvel at the diverse plant life, including evergreens like pines, cedars, and laurels, which provide a year-round verdant backdrop.

One of the highlights of Can Solei is the grand esplanade, a sunny, elevated area that was once dedicated to growing fruit trees and vegetables. Today, it serves as a large public plaza, perfect for recreational activities and community events. The area is dominated by majestic stone pines, interspersed with oaks, holm oaks, hackberries, and even a century-old Nolina, known as the Canelobre, a botanical rarity in the metropolitan parks network.

The Historic Houses of Can Solei

Between the gardens and the esplanade, you'll find the historic manor houses, separated by a central courtyard filled with unique palm species like the Butia and the date palm. These buildings, with their simple yet elegant architectural lines, feature galleries and terraces overlooking the courtyard, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of their former inhabitants.

Discovering Ca l'Arnús

The Ca l'Arnús section of the park is a treasure trove of unique buildings and lush vegetation. The gardens, dating back to the 1870s and 1880s, are designed in a romantic style typical of the era, with dense, lush plantings that include palms, pines, eucalyptus, plane trees, and many other species. The winding paths and ornamental elements like the navigable lake, fountains, sculptures, grottoes, and cascades create a magical atmosphere.

Among the notable structures in Ca l'Arnús are the Arnús Tower, the lake castle, the water tower, and the clock tower. The Arnús Tower, originally designed by architect Josep Oriol Mestres and later remodeled by Salvador Vinyals and Sabaté, is a neoclassical gem with a quadrangular layout, a porch supported by four columns, and terraces offering stunning views of the sea and mountains.

The Garden of the Cocols and the Glorieta Plaza

Close to the Arnús Tower is the Garden of the Cocols, home to a bust of Evaristo Arnús and the remarkable clock tower, which houses a meteorological station with a perpetual calendar and various measuring instruments. This area is a serene spot, perfect for reflection and appreciation of the park's historical and botanical treasures.

Activities and Events

Parc de Can Solei i Ca l'Arnús is not just a place of historical and botanical interest; it is also a vibrant community hub. The park hosts a variety of activities and events throughout the year, from cultural festivals and concerts to educational workshops and guided tours. The spacious esplanades and shaded gardens provide ideal settings for picnics, leisurely strolls, and outdoor games, making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.

Conclusion

Parc de Can Solei i Ca l'Arnús is a captivating blend of history, nature, and community spirit. Its lush gardens, historic buildings, and tranquil pathways offer a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this park is a must-visit destination in Badalona. Come and explore the rich heritage and natural beauty of Parc de Can Solei i Ca l'Arnús, and experience the timeless charm of one of Badalona's most treasured green spaces.