Barcelona's Papallona Building Becomes New Symbol of Resistance Against Investment Funds

Barcelona City Council imposes 20,000 euro fines on the owner for irregularities in a Gràcia property.

Generic image of a modernist building facade with ornamental details in Barcelona.
IA

Generic image of a modernist building facade with ornamental details in Barcelona.

The Papallona building on Llançà street has emerged as the latest flashpoint for housing rights in Barcelona, as long-term residents fight eviction notices from an international investment fund.

The dispute began when New Amsterdam Developers (NAD) acquired the modernist property and refused to renew leases for residents like Marga Aguilar. The fund intends to convert the traditional apartments into co-living spaces, a move contested by local housing unions.

"I don't want these people to earn a single euro of public money."

Marga Aguilar · Affected resident
Barcelona City Council has already fined the fund 20,000 euros for unauthorized construction at another site in the Gràcia district. Deputy Mayor Laia Bonet confirmed the penalties as the city seeks to enforce residential rental regulations.