Historian Francesc Comas will review the changes experienced in Manresa during the 19th century
For the nineteenth consecutive year, the historian, geographer, collaborator of this newspaper and prolific author of books on historical memory, Francesc Comas, will sign a historical series during the summer in the pages of Regió7. This year, the series will be dedicated to the infrastructure and equipment of Manresa during the 19th century.
Changes in the structure and urban functions of Manresa during the 19th century
During the 19th century, Manresa experienced significant changes in its urban structure and functions. From being a post-medieval city with an agricultural economy and dominant craft activities, it became a modern city thanks to industrialization.
The massive arrival of workers in textile factories and other industries necessitated the construction of new housing. Since the walled city did not have enough space, extra walls had to be built and a wide area opened along the new road axes of the roads of Cardona and Vic, and later, the Passeig.
The walls, built during the medieval period as a defense wall and to control access to the city, were permanently demolished during the Third Carlist War in 1877.
New services and equipment in Manresa during the 19th century
The industrial and demographic growth of Manresa led to the creation of new services to improve the quality of life of the citizens. Various communications, supply, leisure, assistance, military, spiritual and educational facilities were built in the city. Many of these facilities are still within the urban fabric of Manresa, some with the same function and others with new uses.
In the following chapters, we will analyze some of these equipments and their function during the 19th century, as well as the changes they have undergone over time.
