Malgrat de Mar

Malgrat de Mar, originally known as 'Vilanova de Palafolls', was founded in 1513 when the region was under the rule of the County of Barcelona. Over time, it became an important center for agriculture and trade thanks to its strategic location along the Mediterranean coast. Today, the area is a vibrant tourist destination, retaining much of its historical and cultural heritage.

One of the most notorious historical events was the murder of the local feudal lord, Damià Diumeró, on January 28, 1691. It's believed he was killed over longstanding disputes about land rights and his stringent rule. This event had a lasting impact on the local community, leading to changes in governance and land ownership which shaped the development of Malgrat de Mar in subsequent decades.

On February 4, 1939, the last Spanish Republican forces left Malgrat de Mar as Nationalist troops advanced into Catalonia. The town suffered damage during the Spanish Civil War, including destruction of infrastructure and displacement of local population due to battles and bombings. This marked an end to the fierce fighting that had characterized the region during the war and began a period of reconstruction and recovery.

The railway line connecting Malgrat de Mar to Barcelona and other parts of Catalonia was officially opened on May 12, 1954. This greatly improved accessibility, fostering tourism and enabling more efficient transportation of goods and people. The railway’s introduction was a turning point in the economic development of the town, transforming it into a popular tourist destination and economic hub.

The death of Francisco Franco on November 20, 1975, led to significant political restructuring across Spain including Malgrat de Mar. Franco’s regime had tightly controlled local governance, but his death allowed for the restoration of democracy, leading to substantial changes in local political dynamics and urban development policies, which have influenced Malgrat's modern landscape and governance structure.

On June 17, 1995, the town of Malgrat de Mar inaugurated Parc Francesc Macià. This large public park became a key recreational space for residents and tourists alike, featuring expansive green areas, playgrounds, sculptures, and thematic installations. It symbolizes the town's commitment to enhancing quality of life through investments in public amenities and environmental sustainability.

The traditional Malgrat de Mar Festival, one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year, attracts thousands of visitors and features a variety of activities, including music concerts, cultural exhibitions, and traditional dances. Celebrated annually in mid-August, it showcases the rich cultural heritage of the town and strengthens community ties through shared celebrations and festivities.

The successful completion of the beach regeneration project on September 9, 2005, marked a significant achievement in coastal management for Malgrat de Mar. It involved sand replenishment and the construction of new facilities to protect against erosion and improve tourist infrastructure. This project helped bolster the town’s reputation as a leading seaside resort in the Costa Brava.

In December 2008, Malgrat de Mar joined the Network of Towns for Sustainability, a Catalan association committed to promoting sustainable development. This commitment indicated Malgrat's dedication to environmental policies and sustainable urban planning, reflecting a broader awareness of ecological issues impacting towns along the Mediterranean coast and shaping future development initiatives.

On March 18, 2017, the restored Masia de Can Feliciano was opened to the public as a cultural and historical exhibit. This masia, or traditional Catalan farmhouse, showcases the agricultural history of the region and the lifestyle of its past inhabitants. The restoration preserves architectural heritage while creating educational opportunities about rural life in Catalonia.