Defining the boundaries of the Port of Barcelona can be debated, but if we focus on the northernmost point, close to the city center, we find the northern breakwater. This spot is marked by a green-striped tower, illuminated at night, serving as an entry indicator for vessels.
Access to this port area is restricted, requiring passage through Joan de Borbó promenade and the Marina Vela management zone. After a security check and passing a yacht-filled pier, one reaches a straight stretch of about 400 meters leading to the green tower, blocked by a fence. The final part of the pier leading to the breakwater is a wide concrete surface from which the constant activity of port traffic can be observed.
From this privileged location, there are clear views of the cruise and ferry terminals, the stevedores' logistics area, the container yard, and various companies. Montjuïc mountain is also visible, particularly its southwest slope known as El Morrot, where the Montjuïc lighthouse stands. This infrastructure, inaugurated in 1925 and designed by engineer Josep Cabestany, was renovated two decades ago without new uses being defined beyond its function as a lighthouse.
Turning north, the W Hotel, areas of Port Vell such as the World Trade Center (WTC) with the Jaume I Tower, Maremàgnum, and city buildings with Tibidabo in the background can be seen.
This breakwater has also been chosen for the installation of the first structures of the RegenPorts project, promoted by the Fundació BCN Port in collaboration with Ocean Ecostructures. These vertical plates, designed to regenerate marine life in a port environment, are being placed on the inner walls of the pier, between two and nine meters deep.
