Eixample (Enlargement) is the city’s
economic and commercial centre. This large district, which
began to be built in 1860, has been subject to different work
phases over the years that have gradually eliminated the architectural
barriers present in its layout. The layout of the streets,
however, is still the original one, designed by the engineer
Ildefons Cerdà.
All the main roads of Eixample have correctly
placed kerb edges and there are many pedestrian-only areas,
making it easy
to get around in a wheelchair.
The main streets are Passeig
de Gràcia and Rambla de Catalunya
  ,
where elegant shops, art galleries and numerous restaurants
stand one after the other.
Both streets end in Plaça
de Catalunya   ,
the centre of the city and an important commercial and
banking area. There is a large underground car park with places
reserved for people with reduced mobility and a direct exit
to the street in a lift.
Another pleasant stroll is along Avinguda
de Gaudí  ,
which joins the Sagrada Família with Hospital de Sant Pau.
It is a lovely rambla, with terraces in the central part. The
pavement is solid, smooth and non-slip. To reach the central
walkway and relax at a terrace bar there are always bevelled
kerbs on the corners.
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