Torre glòries: What’s behind Barcelona’s colourful tower?
One of the most interesting towers in Barcelona is Torre glòries also known as Agbar tower, known for its bullet shape.
Description of tower glories
Torre Agbar is a famous skyscraper located at the beginning of the technological zone of the city, It is called 22nd but more precisely in the district of Sant Marti. It is 145 metres high and is the third tallest building in Barcelona. It is also within easy reach of the Sagrada Familia.
The building is the headquarters of the multinational group Agbar, but inside it also houses other offices of different companies. Its particular design soon made it a popular tourist building. It is a characteristic symbol that can be seen from all the scenic areas of the city.
The Agbar Tower was built by architect Jean Nouvel. It emulates a gayser for this has a bullet shape. The building was built between 1999 and 2005. It is inspired by Catalan symbols such as: the bell towers of the Sagrada Familia, Gaudí’s project of the Hotel Attraction in New York, which in the end was never realized and finally the spires of Montserrat. Its 38 floors (4 underground) include auditoriums, car parks, offices, halls, cafeteria and viewpoint.
The composition of the building represents the main element of the revival of the Saint Martì area. It has not been artistically understood by all and is often mocked by the Catalans themselves. Because of its phallic form, in fact, it is often labeled as the polla de Barcelona (the penis of Barcelona).
What makes this tower special?
The tower was built following a bio-climatic architecture. It tries to adapt to the environment and exploit its advantages by reducing pollution. It is considered a true source of green energy. In its construction were used as cement materials, glass and aluminum of different shades. This allows the Torre Agbar to change color depending on daylight and seasons. In addition, the building is equipped with 4,500 LED lighting devices that allow for eye-catching night lighting, also generating special images.
The construction of the building is aimed at achieving minimum environmental impact. The goal of this tower is to optimize the symbiosis between man, climate and environmental context. So that none of the three elements will prevail over the other two.
The location of the Agbar tower is designed to make the most of energy resources and air circulation. The use of insulating materials ensures perfect insulation of the rooms, also thanks to a double coating of the facade, which creates a perfect heat shield. In addition, employees of the water company Agbar can enjoy sensational views of Barcelona thanks to the distribution of 4,400 windows. The style, finally, does not neglect the tradition of Catalan architecture. The polychrome slabs that cover the tower are inspired by the magnificence of the colours of Antoni Gaudi.
An interesting fact is that in a few months Torre Glories will open its belvedere to the public and show the most instagrammable skyline in Barcelona. The opening of this new cultural space will also offer exclusive 360º views, from a height of over 120 meters.
