The city of Manresa, located in the heart of Catalonia, is not just a place rich in history and culture; it is also a natural setting for audiovisual productions seeking diversity, history, and a unique atmosphere. The Manresa Film Office, which is part of the Manresa City Council and a member of the Catalunya Film Commission’s Film Friendly Network, has turned this city into a key hub for cinema and television. The office has positioned itself as an essential partner for both local and international producers, offering not only the ease of filming but also driving strategic projects that strengthen the audiovisual sector.

Economic and cultural benefits

Manresa not only facilitates filming but also generates significant economic and cultural benefits for the city. It is estimated that 30% of a production’s total budget has a direct impact on the local economy, affecting everything from accommodation to technical services. Moreover, the presence of film shoots has boosted Manresa’s international projection, with images of the city featured in successful series and international productions, contributing to the rise of film tourism. This growing tourist interest in discovering the locations where major productions have been filmed presents a unique opportunity to diversify the city’s tourist offerings.

The broad variety of locations offered by Manresa, ranging from architectural styles of different eras to natural and urban spaces, makes it a versatile destination for a wide range of productions. Over the years, Manresa has been the setting for notable productions such as Hache, Bird Box: Barcelona, and Las leyes de la frontera, significantly contributing to the city’s cultural and economic activity.

Industrial architecture: timeless settings

One of Manresa’s greatest attractions for audiovisual productions is its industrial architecture. Locations like L’Anònima, a building constructed at the end of the 19th century and representing academic industrial architecture, have become ideal settings for productions seeking to recreate historical atmospheres. The building, with its imposing façade and chimney, has been used in productions such as Hache and Las leyes de la frontera. These types of structures not only offer an authentic ambiance but are also versatile, adapting to various periods and narrative styles.

Another prominent location is La Fàbrica Nova, an industrial building from 1926, designed by architect Salvador Vinyals, who also designed other landmark buildings in Barcelona. This former cotton spinning mill is not only a landmark in Manresa’s urban landscape but has also been a witness to major productions such as The Night Tales and several significant documentaries. The rehabilitation of this space demonstrates how the city’s industrial past transforms into a contemporary attraction for the audiovisual world.

Natural spaces: a versatile paradise

Beyond architecture, Manresa offers stunning natural spaces that provide a unique atmosphere for any production. La Sèquia, a medieval engineering work from the 14th century, is a water canal that runs through several towns and supplies water to Manresa. Its natural landscape and historical surroundings make it an ideal location for productions looking to recreate rustic and ancient settings.

Another natural space of great interest is the Parc de l’Agulla, located on the outskirts of Manresa. This park, which surrounds a lake built in the 1960s, offers a peaceful and picturesque environment that has been used in TV productions such as Com si fos ahir by TV3. The combination of historical architecture and nature allows Manresa to offer a wide range of possibilities to directors and producers.

Religious and monumental heritage: a journey through time

Manresa also stands out for its religious and monumental heritage, which has been the setting for major audiovisual productions. The Basilica of Santa Maria de la Seu, one of the most emblematic buildings of Catalan Gothic art, has hosted film shoots for movies like Bird Box: Barcelona and Las leyes de la frontera. This impressive building, perched atop Puigcardener, overlooks the city and provides a majestic and imposing setting, perfect for scenes requiring a historical and monumental environment.

Another religious site of great significance is the Cova de Sant Ignasi, where Saint Ignatius of Loyola secluded himself in the 16th century. This architectural complex, with its important historical and spiritual value, has been used as a setting for various productions, and its mystical aura makes it an ideal location for films seeking an atmosphere of introspection and depth.

Architectural elements and urban settings

Manresa also stands out for its variety of architectural and urban elements that offer rich visual diversity to productions. Carrer del Balç, with its medieval layout and porches dating back to the 14th century, offers an authentic visual experience of ancient Manresa. This narrow, winding street, with its staggered levels, has been a perfect location for productions looking to recreate life in medieval times.

The Passeig Pere III, the city’s main promenade, stretching over 1,000 metres, is the commercial and social centre of Manresa. Along this promenade, you can find modernist buildings and emblematic spaces that have been used in productions like El cuerpo en llamas and Hache. Its vibrant urban life and architectural appeal make it an excellent option for productions requiring urban settings.

Logistical support and filming ease

The Manresa Film Office not only facilitates locations but also offers solid logistical support for productions. From managing permits to providing technical advice, the Film Office team ensures that each shoot runs smoothly and efficiently. This support is essential for producers and directors to focus on creativity without worrying about logistical aspects, making Manresa a truly film-friendly destination.

In summary, Manresa offers a unique combination of historic architecture, natural landscapes, and cultural heritage that makes it an attractive and versatile destination for all types of audiovisual productions. The city has adapted to the needs of cinema and television, offering locations that suit various eras and styles, all with the backing of the Manresa Film Office, which ensures that each production receives the necessary support to be a success.

With its rich history and diverse locations, Manresa is well-prepared to continue being a leading reference in the world of audiovisual productions, offering unparalleled settings that capture the essence of film and television.