To spot Can Salvador de la Plaza, just look ahead in the square for a cream-colored building with big wooden doors, charming balconies, and a distinctive balcony with ornate gothic arches above the entrance.
Now that you’ve arrived at Can Salvador de la Plaza, take a deep breath and imagine yourself stepping back in time - but don’t worry, no time machines or suspicious mustaches required! Right in front of you is a grand old house with three proud façades, each one facing a different street or the main square, as if it’s watching everyone come and go. The main entrance, with its slightly lowered stone arch, invites you in, while above it sits a unique balcony with decorative gothic arches and nifty stone reliefs - a real showstopper back in the day. If you listen closely, you might even hear the soft echo of old town chatter.
Way back in the 14th century, this house was just getting settled in, accompanied by the buzz of medieval Calella. Its roof has heard centuries’ worth of secrets, laughter, and probably a few arguments over who ate the last fig. The building became home to the illustrious Salvador family, whose members weren’t just anyone - they were superstar botanists and pharmacists, and frankly, they put the “herb” in “superb.” Picture Juan Salvador Boscà and his son Jaume, both major VIPs of Barcelona’s Council of One Hundred, studying plants and mixing potions right where you’re standing now. One Salvador even wrote an entire book on the art of fishing in Catalonia, so if you’re a fan of fishing or just reading about it, you’re standing on very scholarly ground.
Fast forward to the 19th century, and you’d find Dr. José Salvador and his wife Socorro here, until Socorro packed her bags for Girona after her husband’s passing, moving in with her brother, who just happened to be the local bishop. It’s almost like a soap opera, but with fancier titles! Soon after, the house was rented by the Palmada family who turned it into a grocery shop. Imagine the delicious smell of fresh fruit and wine wafting out of these windows.
By the time the late 20th century rolled around, the poor old place was looking a little worse for wear - so much so, the town nearly decided to demolish it when they needed a new library. But, never underestimate the power of a determined community! The people of Calella, along with local civic groups, fought tooth and nail to save their beloved landmark. After much debate (and probably a few impassioned speeches), the plan changed. Instead of knocking it down, they breathed new life into the building and turned it into the municipal library it remains today, opening its doors in 2006.
Now, this library houses some 45,000 treasures - books, documents, and even a special stash on local tourism - and fills its three stories not just with words, but with activities, workshops, and events all year round. So, whether you’re here to marvel at gothic details, soak up centuries of local history, or find a good story inside, remember this: Can Salvador de la Plaza is proof that buildings, like the best stories, are worth preserving, sharing, and cherishing.
