Refugi 307 is a shelter that was used as a means of defense against the bombardments during the Spanish Civil War. There were about 2.000 shelters, and 307 is a tourist attraction. It was built by the residents of the neighborhood, Catalan government and the army. The shelter has 3 entrances from La Rambla. It is 400 meters long, wide about 2 meters and 2.1 meters high.
There are different rooms within the shelter: toilets, water supply, children’s rooms and a big lounge with a fireplace. Such underground experience is unique because it was not easy to spend days there trapped. As soon as the first bombs were dropped, people ran to shelters. Water and food had been previously supplied so people were on safe. When there was not enough room for all citizens, they went to the woods. The Civil War broke out on 16 March, 1938 at 22.00h. Near 1.000 people died and 50 buildings were destroyed. This bombing of Barcelona was only a preparation for the following bombardment during the Second World War. Refugi 307 is one of the best preserved shelters from that period. It is a memorial center that reminds us what people suffered through and how they lived while bombs destroyed their city above.
Working hours: Monday – Saturday
there are tours with a guide on Saturdays in English, Spanish and Catalan; entrance is free on the given day
Author of the text:
Maja Glavaš, Bachelor with Honours in Communicology. Works in Tourism.
Contact: [email protected]; instagram: travel_europe1
