The Badalona council has made this decision after receiving a proposal to exercise the right of pre-emption and redemption in the face of a firm offer from a company interested in purchasing the monumental complex. The goal is to ensure that this space, of extraordinary heritage and historical value, remains linked to the city.
The monastery of Sant Jeroni de la Murtra is known for being the place where the Catholic Monarchs received Christopher Columbus in April 1493, after his first voyage to America. This historical connection has been documented by various institutions, including the Portal de Archivos Españoles (PARES) and the Cultural Heritage of the Generalitat de Catalunya.
The mayor of Badalona, Xavier Garcia Albiol, highlighted the monastery's importance: "A part of world history passes through Sant Jeroni de la Murtra, passes through Badalona, and we have the responsibility to preserve and enhance it." He added that the project aims to turn it into a major cultural and museum space.
The municipal intention to incorporate Sant Jeroni de la Murtra into public heritage is not new, as approximately a year and a half ago, unsuccessful negotiations were held for its acquisition. The new purchase offer has accelerated the expropriation process by the City Council.
The museum project aims to explain the context of the discovery of America, Columbus's first voyage, and his connection with Badalona, as well as to highlight the monastery's architectural and artistic heritage and its historical relationship with the monarchy.
